Abstract: A collapsible spreader assembly (1) capable of being disassembled comprises at least two end members (3, 5), each of which comprises a lower load attachment point (25) for attachment to the load to be lifted, and an upper lifting attachment point (21) for attachment to a crane hook or the like, the spreader assembly (1) further comprising connection means for connecting the end members (3, 5) together, the connection means comprising a male spigot connector (31), and a female socket connector (41) operative to slidingly receive the male spigot connector (31) in use, each connector (31, 41) being formed with an annular load carrying face (37, 47), the plane of each load carrying face (37, 47) being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the assembled spreader such that, when the end members (3, 5) are connected together, the load carrying faces (37, 47) abut so as to carry the axial compression forces acting between the ends of the spreader in use.