The invention to which this application relates is a rollable container and a method of manufacture thereof.

Although the following description refers exclusively to storing and transporting water in a container from which animals may also drink, the person skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention could also be used for transporting other materials and substances such as alternative liquids /fluids, or non-fluid materials, and not necessarily for the feeding of animals .

Portable water carriers to transport relatively large volumes of water are widely available. Generally, these carriers are cylindrical and configured to roll across the ground on their side, making transportation of the large volume much easier. Commonly, such water carriers are used by people with motorhomes or caravans, where water sources may not be conveniently located. As such, the carrier is provided as a plastic drum having an inlet through which mains water may flow, and an outlet, enabling the user to pour out the water as required. An example of such a water carrier is shown in Figure 1 , which is widely available under the registered trademark Aquaroll®.

Alternative uses for such carriers include use on farmland, yards, stables and/or the like to transport large quantities of water from a water source to more remote locations, such as water/ feeding troughs for farm animals. However, problems with the current water carriers are encountered, for example, the carrier needs to be emptied into a trough or alternative drum or barrel. This is problematic because a large volume of water is a large weight to pick up and empty into a trough, drum or barrel. Such water carriers may contain up to 40 litres of water and thus weigh at least 40kgs, making it difficult for a user to pick up and empty the same as required.

It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide a container that overcomes the problems associated with the aforementioned prior art.

It is another aim of the present invention to provide a method of manufacturing a container that overcomes the problems associated with the aforementioned prior art.

It is yet another aim of the present invention to provide a method of using a container that overcomes the problems associated with the aforementioned prior art.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a rollable container, said container including: a body having first and second opposing ends, said first end forming a base of the container; lid means attachable to at least a part of said second end; and wherein said container is provided of a size so as to receive at least 8 litres of a material or substance to be contained therein, characterized in that said lid means is provided to extend substantially across a width or length of said second end, thereby closing off an opening into the body of the container formed in the second end.

In one embodiment, said container is provided of a size so as to receive between 8- 120 litres of a material or substance. In one embodiment, said container is provided of a size so as to receive at least 10 litres of a material or substance. Typically, said container is provided of a size so as to receive between 10-100 litres of a material or substance. Preferably, said container is provided of a size so as to receive between 30-80 litres of a material or substance. More preferably, said container is provided of a size so as to receive between 40-60 litres of a material or substance.

In one embodiment, the body of the container is of a substantially cylindrical form. Typically, the first and opposing second ends of the container are substantially circular in cross- section. Further typically, the container may be provided with a substantially constant diameter along the length of the body from the first end to the second end. In one embodiment, said lid means may be provided to extend across at least a chord of said second end. In another embodiment, said lid means may be provided to extend substantially across at least a diameter of said second end.

In one embodiment, the body of the container includes two or more substantially flat faces or sides. Typically, the body of the container may include a combination of curved faces and substantially flat faces. In another embodiment, the body of the container includes a plurality of substantially flat faces or sides . Typically, the first and/or opposing second ends of the container have a polygonal cross-section.

In one embodiment, said opening is formed, between inner walls of the body, across substantially the whole diameter of the second end of the container. Typically, said opening is provided across substantially the whole of the second end. Typically, said lid means is provided to cover the said opening.

In one embodiment, said opening is formed in a part of said second end. Typically, said lid means is provided to cover said opening, thereby covering part of said second end. Further typically, a remaining part of said second end is permanently closed off. In a preferred embodiment, said opening is sized to allow an animal access to the material or substance contained within the container, for consumption thereof. Typically said animal is a farm animal. Further typically, said animal can include sheep, goats, llamas and/or the like, or equine or bovine animals . Preferably, said animal is an equine animal.

In one embodiment, the container is provided to store and/or convey a material or substance from a first location to a second location. Typically, the said material or substance is a flowable material or substance. Further typically, the said material or substance is a liquid. Yet further typically, said liquid is water. In one embodiment, the said material or substance is a solid. Typically, said solid is in a powder, fibrous, and/or granulated form and/or the like. Further typically, said solid is an animal foodstuff.

Thus, there is provided a rollable container that overcomes the problems associated with the known rolling water carriers discussed in the prior art. The container of the present invention has clear advantages in that once it has been rolled/transported to its desired location, a user now is not required to lift and empty the contents of the container into a trough, drum or barrel; the user may now simply detach the lid means from at least part of the body, when in an upright configuration, thereby allowing easy and unobstructed access to the contents of the container.

In one embodiment, the container is formed from a plastics material. Typically, the container is formed from a moulded plastic. In one embodiment, the body of the container may be provided with an interior lining. Typically, said interior lining may be formed from a different material to that of the body of the container.

In one embodiment, at least the body of the container may be formed from a rubber material. In one embodiment, at least an exterior of the body of the container is formed from a rubber material.

In one embodiment, said lid means is attachable to the second end via a screw-thread arrangement. Typically, a screw thread is provided on an exterior wall of the body at or near the second end, and a complementary screw thread is provided on an interior wall of the said lid means. In an alternative embodiment, a screw thread is provided on an interior wall of the body at or near the second end, and a complementary screw thread is provided on an exterior wall of the said lid means. Consequently, in one embodiment, said lid means may be located at least partially within the interior of the container body, at or adjacent to the second end.

In one embodiment, said lid means may be located substantially within the interior walls of the body of the container. Typically, said lid means is provided to rest on and/or be attachable to a shoulder member, located on or around the interior walls of the body of the container.

In one embodiment, said lid means rests on said shoulder member, in use, such that an upper surface of the lid means is recessed with respect to top edges of the container walls at the second end. In another embodiment, said lid means rests on said shoulder member, in use, such that an upper surface of the lid means is substantially flush with top edges of the container walls at the second end. In one embodiment, where said opening is formed in part of said second end, said lid means can be provided to cover said opening in a hinged or pivoted arrangement. Typically, said lid means is detachable from at least part of said second end, and is foldable or pivotable about said hinge or pivot arrangement.

In one embodiment, said lid means is attachable to the second end or at least part thereof via a snap-fit arrangement. Typically, said snap-fit arrangement is provided as an annular snap-fit.

In one embodiment, said lid means is attachable to the second end or at least part thereof via one or more clips, clasps, or other suitable fastening means .

In one embodiment, sealing means are provided between the lid means and the body of the container. Typically, said sealing means are provided so as to prevent or substantially reduce leakage of the substance or material contained within the container, in particular, during transport of the same.

In one embodiment, said sealing means are located between an inner surface of the lid means and a top edge of the body at the second end. In another embodiment, said sealing means are located between a bottom edge of a wall of the lid means and a shoulder provided on the wall of the body, which contacts the bottom edge of the wall of the lid means when attached.

In one embodiment, where said lid means is located at least partially within the interior of the container body, said sealing means are located between an outer surface of the lid means and an inner surface of the container body at or adjacent the second end. In one embodiment, said sealing means are provided as one or more O-rings. Typically, said sealing means are formed from rubber. Further typically, a pair of O-rings is provided.

In one embodiment, retaining means are provided, further connecting and securing the lid means and the body of the container. Typically, said retaining means are provided in the form of a single or dual-clip fastener, clasp, snap fastener and/or the like. Said retaining means may be provided as a back-up or safety feature in order to ensure the lid means remains attached to the body during transport of the container from a first location to a second location or, in some embodiments, as the primary means of attaching the lid means to the body of the container.

In one embodiment, said retaining means are provided in the form of an elongate member having a central portion extending across a width or diameter of the lids means in use, and opposing end portions arranged to extend downwardly on opposing sides of an exterior wall of the body of the container. Typically, said end portions include hook members, clasps, fasteners, sprung V-sections and/or the like, arranged to engage with a corresponding recess or formation on the exterior wall of the body of the container.

In one embodiment, said retaining means may be provided as a metal or metal alloy bar member.

Thus, in order to secure the lid means to the container body further, a retaining member may be provided to extend over the lid means in use and attaching to the walls of the container body thereby ensuring that, during transportation of the container, the lid means is fully prevented from inadvertently dislodging or detaching from the container body. In one embodiment, said end portions are biased inwardly towards the side of the exterior wall of the container body, in use.

In one embodiment, said recess or formations provided on the exterior wall of the container body may be provided as a pair of opposing recess portions or nipple portions, arranged to engage said hook members, clasps, fasteners, sprung V-sections and/or the like of the end portions. In another embodiment, said recess or formations may be provided as an annular recess, groove or rib member arranged to engage said hook members, clasps, fasteners, sprung V-sections and/or the like of the end portions .

In one embodiment, the central portion of the retaining means includes an aperture located therein. Typically, said aperture is arranged to be placed over a substantially central formation located on the lid means, in use. Typically, said formation is provided as a handle receiving or attachment means for a handle member of the container.

In one embodiment, said retaining means may be provided as a metallic rope member or webbing/webbed strap member. Typically, said rope member or webbing/webbed strap member is provided with opposing ends attachable to formations located on opposite sides of the exterior wall of the container body, in use. Further typically, said rope member or webbing/webbed strap member may be tightened by a user to provide a secure attachment, in use.

In one embodiment, where said lid means is located substantially within the interior walls of the body of the container, and an upper surface of the lid means is recessed with respect to top edges of the container walls at the second end, said retaining means may be provided as an elongate member attachable to interior walls of the container body at or adjacent the second end.

In one embodiment, at least one formation is provided on an exterior wall of the body of the container. Typically, said at least one formation extends radially outward of the body. Further typically, said at least one formation extends about the entire circumference of the body, forming a rib member.

In one embodiment, at least two rib members are provided on the body. Typically, said rib members are provided in a spaced apart manner. Further typically, said rib members are spaced apart a substantially equal distance either side of a mid-point of the body. Thus, the provision of a pair of rib members provides distinct portions of the container on which it may roll when being transported.

In one embodiment, at least one portion of the rib member is shaped to receive a hand of a user. Typically, the said portion is ergonomically shaped to receive a user's hand. In one embodiment, handle means are formed in at least one portion of the rib member. Typically, a plurality of handle means are formed, or the rib member is shaped to receive a hand in a plurality of locations around the same. Further typically, said locations are equally spaced from one another. Preferably, at least four locations along the rib member are provided as described.

In one embodiment, a layer of material is provided on an outer face of said rib member. Typically, said layer of material forms a protective layer between the said rib member and a surface on which the rib member contacts and/or rolls. Further typically, said layer is formed from a rubber material.

In one embodiment, a first plurality of formations is provided on an exterior wall of the body of the container. Typically, said plurality of formations extends radially outward of the body and about the entire circumference of the body. Further typically, the formations within the plurality are spaced equal distances apart about the circumference. In one embodiment, a second plurality of formations is provided.

In one embodiment, said at least one formation or plurality of formations is formed from a plastics material. Typically, said formation or plurality of formations is formed integrally with the body of the container.

The formations are provided so as to allow or permit rolling movement of the container having a reduced or no risk of impacts of debris or uneven ground on the side wall of the body of the container. The formations, extending radially outward of the body, therefore reduce the surface area of the container which contacts the ground as it is being moved, thus making transport easier, especially over softer and more uneven terrain such as grassy/muddy fields, yards or other farmland. The provision of handle means or formations shaped to receive a hand around the rib members allow a user to grip the same and either lift an empty container as required, or move the container, be it full, partially full or empty, from resting on its side to stand upright, on its base. Handle means are not necessarily required when a plurality of formations is provided, since it would be easier to grip them in comparison to a continuous rib member. In one embodiment, the base of the container is weighted. Typically, the weighted base provides an increased stability for the container as the contents therein are reduced.

In one embodiment, the container is provided of a height substantially equal to its width. Typically, said container is provided of a height substantially equal to its diameter. Thus, by providing a container having dimensions substantially equal in height and width, this increases the stability of the container and reduces the likelihood of it being inadvertently knocked over by a user or animal drinking or feeding therefrom.

In one embodiment, a handle member is provided detachably attachable to the container. Typically, said handle member includes a first end for attachment to the first end of the container, and a second end for attachment to the second end of the container. Further typically, the second end of the handle member is attachable to the lid means, when the lid means is attached to the container.

In one embodiment, said handle member further includes a gripping portion for a user. Typically, said gripping portion may include grip means or an ergonomically shaped portion.

In one embodiment, said handle member is provided to permit more convenient transport of the container, as required by a user.

In one embodiment, said handle member is foldable, or separable into two or more sections. Such a feature is convenient for storage of the same or attachment to/detachment from the container. In one embodiment, handle receiving or attachment means are provided located on the container, for attachment of a handle member thereto. Typically, first handle receiving or attachment means are formed substantially at or on the base of the container. Further typically, said means is formed substantially centrally on the base.

In one embodiment, the base is provided with a recessed portion, in which said first handle receiving or attachment means can be located.

Typically, second handle receiving or attachment means are formed substantially at the second end of the container. Preferably, said second handle receiving or attachment means are provided on the lid means. Further typically, said means is formed substantially centrally on the lid means.

In one embodiment, an inner wall of the body is provided with one or more markings thereon. Typically, said one or more markings are provided to indicate the amount or volume of the substance or material contained therein. Preferably, a plurality of markings is provided. Typically, said markings are graduated.

In one embodiment, a top edge of a wall of the body forms a rim of the body. Typically, said rim is formed having a substantially smooth and/or thickened surface. Such a rim is provided as a safety feature so as to prevent an animal scratching itself on the container as it eats or drinks therefrom.

In one embodiment, an aperture is formed in the said lid means . Typically, closure means are provided so as to close the aperture in use. The aperture is provided so as to enable a user to top up or partially empty substance or material in or from the container. In one embodiment, at least one handle member if formed on the said lid means. Typically, said handle member is formed integrally with said lid means, and is provided so as to allow a user to manoeuvre the container more easily.

In one embodiment, a connection member for attachment to a fluid flow means is located on the container. Typically, said connection member is arranged to permit flow of fluid into the container. Preferably, said connection member is located on the lid means of the container.

In one embodiment, said connection member includes a one-way or non-return valve means. Typically, said valve means is provided to substantially prevent the escape of fluid from the container through the said connection member.

In another embodiment, said connection member includes shut- off valve means. Typically, said shut-off valve means is provided to prevent inward flow of fluid into the container once the amount of fluid therein reaches a predetermined level or volume.

In one embodiment, the said connection member is formed in the wall of the body of the container. Preferably, said connection member is formed in the lids means of the container. Typically, said connection member is provided as one part of a two-part connection assembly. Further typically, said connection member forms a male portion of a male-female connection assembly.

In one embodiment, closure means may be provided to close the connection member when not in use. Typically, said closure means is provided as an end cap. In one embodiment, the container is provided with shut-off valve means . Typically, said valve means is provided in the form of a ballcock, float valve and/or the like. Thus, the valve means prevents inward flow of fluid into the container once the amount of fluid therein reaches a predetermined level or volume. Typically, said fluid flows through an inlet located in said lid means.

In one embodiment, said shut-off valve means is attached to the lid means . Typically, said valve means is attached to an underside of the lid means . Thus, as the valve means is attached to the lid means, the same is removed from the container as the lid means is also removed, and will therefore not obstruct animals drinking from the container. Additionally, a further advantage is provided it will result in there being fewer moving, fragile, or intricate parts on the container body to be damaged by the animals.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a rollable container, said method including the steps of: providing a body having first and second opposing ends, said first end forming a base of the container; forming the container of a size so as to receive at least 8 litres of a material or substance; providing lid means attachable to at least a part of said second end, and characterized in that said lid means is provided to extend substantially across a width or length of said second end, thereby closing off an opening into the body of the container formed in the second end.

In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using a rollable container, said method including the steps of providing a rollable container as described above; using the same to transfer a material or substance from a first location to a second location via a rolling action; placing said rollable container in a substantially upright position; and at least partially removing lid means provided to extend substantially across a width or length of an end of the container so as to enable access to the said material or substance contained therein.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein:

Figure 1 illustrates a water carrier in accordance with an example known in the prior art;

Figure 2 illustrates a rollable container in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 3 illustrates a handle member for attachment to a rollable container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 4a— b illustrate side-on views of containers and handle members in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figures 5a— c illustrate views of a securing means for a rollable container in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 6 illustrates the attachment of a securing means to a rollable container in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring firstly to Figure 1 , there is shown, as discussed above, a water carrier A as is well known in the prior art. The carrier A can be filled and emptied with water via a simple screw cap that can be located either on an end of the carrier B or along the body of the carrier C. For the uses as envisaged by the Applicant, the problems associated with the current water carrier as described above mean that it is inadequate for meeting these new requirements. Consequently, and referring now to Figure 2, there is illustrated a rollable container in the form of a barrel 1. The barrel 1 in the present embodiment is designed primarily for the storage and transport of liquid material, in particular, water, and the following description will refer almost exclusively to this specific use. However, it should be noted that the barrel 1 could also be used equally well for the storage and transport of other substances or materials, such as certain forms of solid. For example, solids in powdered, fibrous, granulated or similar forms would be ideal, and could more specifically relate to various types of animal foodstuff, allowing convenient transport and subsequent feeding directly from the barrel 1 by the animal or animals. In some embodiments, if the barrel 1 is sealed and/or pressurised appropriately, it could also be used for the storage and transport of gaseous substances.

The barrel 1 , when in an upright position as shown in Figure 2 has a top end 3 and a bottom end or base 5. The base 5 in preferred embodiments will have a weighted portion 7 to provide additional stability to the barrel 1 when it is stood in the upright position. This is particularly useful when the barrel 1 is positioned as such and the contents of the barrel 1 are gradually reduced, preventing or at least substantially reducing the risk of the barrel 1 being knocked or blown over by animals or strong winds etc. Another means by which to increase the stability of the barrel 1 is to provide it of a height substantially equal to that of its diameter, i.e. , a "squat" barrel, thereby lowering its centre of gravity and making it more difficult for a person or animal to inadvertently knock it over, even when the contents are reduced. At the opposite end of the barrel 1 , the top end 3, there is an opening 9 into the body of the barrel 1. The opening 9 spans effectively the whole inner diameter of the barrel 1 (i.e. , between the inner walls 11), effectively across the whole top end 3. In order to close the opening 9, there is provided a detachable lid 13 of the barrel 1. The lid 13 spans the full diameter of the barrel 1 such that, when attached to the barrel 1 , the entire opening 9 is closed off. Once the lid 13 is attached, a handle portion 15, as shown in Figure 3, may then be attached to the barrel 1 to allow convenient transport of the same. The handle portion 15 has first 17 and second 19 ends, which attach to the base 5 and lid 13 respectively. In particular, the ends 17, 19 can be attached to fixings 21 , 23 respectively, located on the base 5 and lid 13. The handle portion 15 may be attached when the barrel 1 , with the lid 13 securely attached thereto, is lying on its side. Once attached, transportation of the barrel 1 to the desired location can be carried our effectively and conveniently. Advantageously, once the barrel 1 has been transported to its desired location and to access the contents therein, all a user needs to do is detach the handle portion 15, stand the barrel 1 in an upright position, and remove the lid 13. For the particular uses envisaged by the Applicant, this consequently allows direct, unobstructed access to the contents of the barrel 1 from which animals may feed or drink. This provides significant benefits over the prior art because a user no longer has to be concerned with a) transporting the barrel to a set location e.g. a feeding/drinking trough; b) having to lift a potentially very heavy load (40kg or more) to empty into the said trough; and c) finding a receptacle from which it is convenient to feed and/or drink. Once in location, the handle portion 15 and lid 13 can be removed from the barrel 1 and taken with the user for storage until such a time where it is required to collect the barrel 1 for cleaning and/or refilling. The barrel 1 is generally formed from a moulded plastics material, which is an ideal material as it is resistant to wear and tear in adverse weather conditions, is easily moulded, and is solid yet also light-weight in comparison to other materials. In some embodiments, the barrel 1 can be formed from metal or even rubber materials . In such instances, the interior of the barrel 1 may be provided with a lining so as to prevent contamination of the water from the metal, and to prevent rust of the said metal. In some instances, the plastic-formed barrel may also be provided with an interior lining, in order to prevent potential leaching of chemicals from the plastic into the water or foodstuff contained therein.

The lid 13, as shown in Figure 2, is attachable to the barrel 1 via a screw-thread arrangement and covers the whole top end 3 of the barrel 1. In this particular embodiment, complementary screw threads are provided on an interior side wall (not shown) of the lid 13, and position 25 on the exterior wall of the barrel body adjacent the top end 3. In an alternative arrangement, the positions may be reversed such that a first screw thread is located on an exterior side wall of the lid 13, and a second, complementary arrangement is located on the interior wall of the barrel body adjacent the top end 3. Consequently, the lid 13 may be located at least partially within the interior of the barrel 1. Another means by which to attach the lid 13 to the barrel 1 is by locating the lid 13 substantially within the interior walls of the barrel 1 , with the lid 13 resting on a shoulder portion or portions in the form of a number of protrusions or an annular shoulder, allowing the lid 13 to rest thereon. The lid 13 can rest on the shoulder in use, such that an upper surface of the lid 13 is recessed with respect to top edges of the barrel walls at the top end 3. Alternatively, the lid 13 may rest, in use, such that an upper surface of the lid 13 is substantially flush with the top edges of the barrel walls at the top end 3. Other attachment arrangements may also be provided, for example, the lid 13 may attach to the barrel body via a snap-fit arrangement, typically an annular snap-fit engagement; or via the provision of one or more clips, clasps, or other suitable fastening means. In other embodiments, the lid 13, while not shown as such in the Figures, may be provided to close off an opening formed in a portion of the top end 3. The opening may extend across the diameter, forming a semi-circular opening, or may extend across a chord, forming an opening in a segment of the top end 3. The lid 13 in these embodiments may be provided as fully detachable using a snap-fit arrangement or via the provision of one or more clips, clasps, or other suitable fastening means . Alternatively, the lid 13 may be partially detachable, that is to say, it may be foldable or pivotable about a hinge or pivot arrangement. Suitable clasps, clips, fasteners, or a snap-fit may then be provided to maintain the lid 13 in the closed position. Where the opening is formed in a portion of the top end 3, it will still be formed of a size, ideally, to allow an animal, preferably an equine animal, access to the material or substance contained within the barrel 1 , for consumption thereof.

In order to ensure there is no leakage of liquid or other material from the barrel 1 as it is being transported, or at least to substantially reduce the potential for leakage, sealing means are provided (not shown) between the lid 13 and the barrel 1. A number of positions are possible for such sealing means, which will generally be provided as a rubber O-ring or pair of O-rings, for example, between an inner surface of the lid 13 and a top edge 27 of the barrel body. Additionally or alternatively, the O- ring or rings may be provided between a bottom edge 29 of the side wall of the lid 13 and a shoulder portion 31 on the exterior wall of the barrel body, which contact as the lid 13 is screwed in place. As will be understood, if the screw thread arrangements are reversed, the shoulder portion and other O-ring positions will adjust accordingly. Essentially, sealing means will be provided on the lid 13 and/or barrel 1 at the interface between them.

In addition to the screw thread/ snap-fit or other attachment arrangement between the lid 13 and the barrel body, secondary attachment members may be provided in the form of one or more retainers, as illustrated in this particular embodiment by retaining clip 33. One or more of these may be provided as a back-up or safety feature in order to ensure the lid 13 remains attached to the barrel body during transport of the barrel 1 from a first location to a second location. In some examples of the present invention, such retaining means may form the primary means of attaching the lid 13 to the barrel 1.

A further example of a retaining member is illustrated in Figures 5a — c, wherein there is provided an elongate metal or metal alloy bar member 59 that is formed to latch over the lid 13 once it is attached to the barrel body. The retainer 59 has a central portion that extends across the width or diameter of the lid 13, and two end portions that extend downwardly on opposing sides of the barrel 1. At the respective ends, means by which to clip and retain the retainer 59 to the barrel 1 are provided in the form of latches, hook members, clasps, fasteners, sprung V- sections and/or the like. Figures 5b and c illustrate two examples of this, wherein simple hook portions 61 are shown in Figure 5b and sprung V-sections 63 are provided in Figure 5c. As shown in Figure 6, the retainer 59 may be urged downwardly in the direction of Arrow X over the top of lid 13 and the barrel 1. The end portions of the retainer 59 may be biased inwardly so as to provide a firm attachment and the hook portions 61 , for example, simply clip or latch into an indent or recess 65 provided in or around the exterior wall of the barrel 1 , indicated by Arrow Y. Figure 6 shows two diametrically opposing indents 65 in which the hook portions 61 may latch, but these may also be provided as a single, annular groove or recess (shown by dotted line 67) . Equally, the barrel may instead be provided with an annular protrusion, over which the hook portions 61 , V- sections 63 and/or the like may be urged and clip, thereby securing the retainer 59 and, consequently, the lid 13 to the barrel 1. As a further means of securing the lid 13 and ensuring that the retainer 59 itself does not inadvertently slip off the lid 13 and barrel 1 , an aperture 69 is provided in the central portion of the same. As the retainer 59 is placed over the lid 13, the aperture 69 is arranged to fit over the handle attachment fixing 23, which may then be secured by the handle end 19, in use.

Other forms of the retainer 59 may also be provided, although are not depicted in the Figures . In some embodiments of the present invention, rather than a rigid bar as shown in Figures 5 and 6, the retainer 59 may be provided as a metallic rope or as a webbing or webbed strap member. At each end, loop portions may be provided, which hook on to protrusions r nipples provided on the side wall of the barrel 1. Subsequently, the rope member may then be tightened in order to provide a secure attachment. In other examples of the present invention, for example where the lid 13 is located substantially within the interior walls of the barrel 1 , recessed, and resting on a shoulder portion or portions as described above, the retainer 59 may be provided as a bar that is attachable to or extends through the interior walls of the barrel 1 at the top end 3.

In order to assist with the rolling nature of the barrel 1 , one or more rib members 35 are located around the circumference of the barrel body. In this preferred embodiment, a pair of rib members is provided. The ribs 35 extend radially outward of the barrel body and are formed integrally with the body from the same moulded plastics material that forms the barrel 1. The ribs 35 are provided at set locations on the barrel body, evenly spaced apart from the mid-point of the barrel body, thereby ensuring a balanced and stable rolling movement when it is moved. The ribs 35 may further be provided with handle means or gripping portions 37, as shown on only one of the ribs 35 in Figure 2, for illustrative purposes. A number of grips 37 may be provided on one or both ribs 35 where, for example, in Figure 4a, four grip portions 37 are provided. These can be shaped as simple concave portions or be more ergonomically shaped to receive a hand of a user. In some embodiments, handles may be formed by providing cutaway portions from the ribs 35, allowing a user to fit at least their fingers therethrough to grip the same. Such grips 37 are located on the ribs 35 so as to allow or permit rolling movement of the barrel 1 having a reduced or no risk of impacts of debris or uneven ground on the side wall of its body. Ensuring the ribs 35 protrude extend radially outward of the barrel body serves to reduce the surface area of the barrel 1 which contacts the ground as it is being moved, thus making transport easier, especially over softer and more uneven terrain such as grassy/muddy fields, yards or other farmland. By providing the grip portions 37, this allows a user to grip the ribs 35 and either lift the empty barrel 1 as required, or move it from resting on its side to stand upright, on its base 5. In addition, the outer surface of the ribs 35, i.e., the surface that contacts the ground as it is being moved, may be provided with a protective layer, such as a rubber outer (not shown) .

In an alternative embodiment, as shown in Figure 4b, rather than there being a pair (or other number) of ribs 35 formed around the circumference of the barrel body, a series of circumferentially spaced moulded formations 39 may be provided, which perform the same function as the ribs 35. In this embodiment, the grip portions 37 are not necessarily required to be present, since it is envisaged that the formations 39 themselves would provide adequate purchase for a user to grip. The barrel 1 itself can be transported and rolled on its ribs 35 or formations 39 by a user pulling or pushing it via the attached handle portion 15. For added convenience, the handle portion may further be provided with a gripping portion 41 . The gripping portion 41 may be provided as a simple plastic, rubber or other suitable material, and in some examples, may also be ergonomically shaped to fit a user's hand, for additional comfort when in use. Furthermore, the handle portion may be separable into two or more sections and, for example, joining portions may be provided at positions 43 and 45, and optionally, adjacent the gripping portion 41. In an alternative embodiment, the handle portion 15 may be foldable, and hinge points may be provided at the aforementioned positions. This allows a far more convenient storage of the handle portion 15 when not in use, and easier attachment to/detachment from the barrel 1 when in use.

As described above, the handle portion 15 connects to the barrel 1 via attachment to fixings 21 and 23. In embodiments where such fixings protrude outward from the barrel 1 , in particular the base fixing 21 , it is desirable that this does not create an imbalanced base surface. Consequently, in such embodiments, the base 5 is provided with a recessed portion 47. As can be seen in Figure 2, the base fixing 21 is therefore located in and protruding outward from the recessed portion 47, but in a manner such that it does not cause an imbalance in the base 5 of the barrel 1. The recessed portion may be provided in numerous forms, for example, as shown in Figures 2 and 4a, as a recessed channel 47' extending across the diameter of the base 5. Another example would be to form a recessed dome 47", of sorts, which is illustrated in Figure 4b. Other variations may be envisaged and the present invention is not to be limited to the two illustrated examples. The inner walls 1 1 of the barrel 1 , or the interior lining if present, may be provided with a series of graduated markings 49 at spaced intervals along the length of the barrel body. The graduated markings 49 are provided so as to give a user an indication of the amount or volume of the substance or material contained therein, for example, to give an indication as to the amount of water remaining in the barrel 1 and, thus, how much has so far been consumed by the animals. The top edge 27 of the barrel 1 , when the lid 13 is removed, forms a rim. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rim is formed with a thickened and/or smoothed off surface so as to prevent an animal scratching itself on the barrel 1 as it eats or drinks therefrom.

The lid 13 of the barrel 1 may be provided with a number of additional features so as to improve the functionality of the barrel 1 , and improve the convenience of usage for a user. Firstly, the lid 13 can be provided with a further sealable cap 51 which is provided so as to a user to top up or partially empty barrel 1 with water or whatever substance is to be contained therein. Further, an additional handle portion 53 may also be provided on the lid 13, so as to allow a user to manoeuvre the barrel 1 more easily when the lid 13 is attached thereto. The handle portion 53 is preferably formed integrally with the lid 13. A hose connector 55 is also shown, in Figure 2, formed on the lid 13. In alternative example, the connector may be provided on the barrel body, but the preferred location is on the lid 13. The connector 55 allows simple connection of a hose pipe adapter or similar to the barrel 1 and can then be left by a user to fill, rather than the user having to stand over the barrel 1 to fill the same. In some embodiments, the hose connector 55 may include a one-way valve or a non-return valve, thereby preventing the escape of liquid from the barrel 1 through the connector. Additionally or alternatively, the hose connector may include a shut-off valve, which would be provided so as to cease the flow of liquid into the barrel 1 once the amount/volume reaches a predetermined level. In the present example, the hose connector 55 is illustrated, in its preferred form, as the male part of a male-female connection assembly, and when not in use, may also be provided with an end cap 57 to close of the same. Rather than providing a shut-off valve within the hose connector 55, another form of shut-off valve assembly (not shown) can be provided with the barrel 1. In a preferred form, such an assembly is provided as a ballcock, float valve and/or the like, but providing the same desired function as described above— to cease the flow of liquid into the barrel 1 once the amount/volume reaches a predetermined level. The described arrangement therefore allows a user to securely connect a hose pipe or similar to the barrel 1 , to fill the same with a liquid, preferably water, to a predetermined level, at which point, the flow of liquid into the barrel 1 will be shut-off by the valve assembly. It is possible, in some embodiments of the invention that a connector and appropriate valve could be located on a wall of the barrel body, but for optimal usage, the placement of the connector 55 in the lid 13 allows liquid to enter the barrel 1 from an uppermost point. The shut-off valve assembly, for example, a ballcock or float valve etc. can then simply rise with the level of the liquid in the barrel 1 until the shut-off point is reached. Furthermore, the shut-off valve assembly can also be attached to the underside of the lid 13, meaning that as the lid 13 is removed from the barrel body it is also removed and will therefore not obstruct animals drinking from the barrel 1. An additional advantage is that this arrangement will also result in there being fewer moving, fragile, or intricate parts on the barrel body to be damaged by the animals as they feed or drink therefrom.