A connecting means adapted to fix or release a first element (4) and a second element (5) includes a locking pin (1) which is moveable to remote activation means between a locked position. In which leg (8) expends wall (9) into recess (10), and an unlocked position. The remote activation means may be magnetic, electro-magnetic or any other suitable means. A method of fixing or releasing first and second elements by remote activation means is also disclosed. The invention further provides a first element having first means (166) adapted to cooperate with second means (165) on a second element to facilitate connection of the first and second elements. A method of manufacturing the first element includes the steps of depositing discrete amounts of setable material on a surface of the first element and inverting the element to permit the material to set under the influence of gravity. A method of reducing the spacing between first and second elements by remote activation means is also disclosed.