A storage apparatus, having a receptacle with an open top, a lid (2) and balance means (6). The lid is able to cover the open top and comprises a horizontal pivot axis (21) at or adjacent the open top. The balance means are pivotable about an axis. Linking means (16) are provided such that a rotational moment is exerted by the balance means, via the linking means, on the lid. The moment is selectable to reduce the force needed to open the lid compared to if the balance means were absent. The centre of gravity of the lid is at a fixed distance from the pivot axis when the lid is closed. As the lid is raised the rotational moment of the weight of the lid, acting through the centre of gravity of the lid, about the pivot axis, and tending to close the lid, changes. The change is at a different rate than the change of the moment of the balance means, exerted on the lid via the linking means. The construction and arrangement being such that the lid requires progressively more opening force to raise it, when the opening force is applied at or near the edge of the lid furthermost from the pivot axis of the lid. The storage apparatus may be used as a stock feeding arrangement, particularly for cattle, wherein an animal may lift the lid to access the feed as required. The moment, provided via the linking means, may be selectable such that the force required to open the lid may be low, to facilitate training, or higher to prevent unwanted opening of the storage apparatus, e.g. by wind gusts.
