Abstract: A pumping system for a heavy oil and sand slurry from a downhole location to the ground surface includes a conventional screw type pump having a rotor and stator. At the bottom of the stator at the inlet thereto is mounted an attachment including a sleeve having a number of slots in the side surface into which the material feeds. Inside the sleeve is mounted a shaft having an auger flight along part of its length. A coupling at the upper end of the shaft connects to the lower end of the rotor and can be engaged and released by rotation of the rotor. The auger flight assists in forming the materials including any excess sand into a suitable slurry for feeding to the inlet of the pump. The auger feeds the material more effectively to the inlet thus maximizing efficiency of the pump. The device thus avoids sand blockages which are common problems in pumping systems of this type.