A winching arrangement is disclosed for winching a cable comprising a winching frame; a capstan (11) for winding the cable onto; a drive motor (3) for driving the capstan; and a first clutch mechanism for disengaging the capstan from the clutch when the torsional load on the cable exceeds a first predetermined limit. Preferably, the first clutch mechanism (6) is located within the capstan and ideally the clutch mechanism is an adjustable cone clutch mechanism. The winching arrangement can further include a second adjustable clutch mechanism located adjacent the motor for providing secondary disengagement of the motor from the capstan when the cable exceeds a second predetermined limit. Further, a gear reducer (8) can be interconnected between the capstan and the drive motor. Preferably, the arrangement also includes a fixing arm (15, 18) for fixing the winch to an object wherein the cable, the capstan and the fixing arm are aligned substantially concentrically during operation.