Abstract: Material handling apparatus comprising a charging hopper (3) having an upper first opening (6) through which material can be loaded into the charging hopper (3) and a lower second opening (7) through which material can be discharged from the charging hopper (3). The apparatus includes a control member (10) having a work head (12) which is mounted for movement within the charging hopper (3) about a pivot axis (20) which extends generally laterally with respect to the normal upright operative position of the apparatus, the control member (10) being pivotally movable about the pivot axis (20) between a first position in which the work head (12) is spaced from and disposed above the second opening (7), and a second position in which the work head is adjacent or within the second opening (7).