An apparatus for feeding solid fuel to a furnace grate comprising a conduit adapted, in use, to extend downwards through the roof of the furnace, means for feeding solid fuel to the conduit above the lower end thereof said means including at least one fuel propulsion element and drive means to cause the element to move to propel the fuel in a desired direction and means to cause a rapid deceleration in the movement of the element whereby any fuel adhering to the element is flung therefrom.