A vertical or block chain connector for linking between two closed chain links includes a lower element and an upper element configured to engage with the lower element to form the chain connector in an assembled condition. In use the lower element is disposed vertically below the upper element in the assembled connector. The upper element is a sliding fit with the lower element and the direction of the sliding connection is in a straight line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the connector and in a plane which is parallel to the horizontal axis when the connector is vertically oriented in use.