Lifting and handling apparatus for use in agriculture, including a frame having ground engaging wheels adjacent one end and being connectable to a tractor or other prime mover at its other end. A load support cradle is connected to the frame and comprises a base section and a back section which is upstanding from a rear edge portion of the base section. The cradle is connected to the apparatus frame through a linkage system so as to be movable relative to the frame between a loading position in which it projects beyond the end of the frame adjacent the wheels, and a carrying position in which it is located above the frame. Drive means attached to the frame is operable to cause the aforementioned movement. The linkage system includes articulated links on both sides of the frame which interact between the frame and cradle so as to cause automatic lifting and tilting of the cradle during its movement from the loading position to the carrying position. The arrangement is such that in the loading position, the base section is substantially horizontal, and in the carrying position both the base and back sections slope relative to the horizontal and the junction between those sections is located between a vertical plane containing the wheel axle and the connection with the tractor or other prime mover.