A connection assembly for engaging a tubular member (1) underwater to restrain the tubular member (1) from radial movement relative to the connection assembly comprises a plurality of pads (5) for engaging the tubular member at circumferentially spaced positions; and a plurality of biasing arrangements (6, 7, 8), each for biasing a respective pad (5) radially inwardly into engagement with the tubular member (1); wherein each biasing arrangement (6, 7, 8) comprises a pre-loadable, mechanical, compressed spring arrangement (7) for resiliently pressing its respective pad (5) against the tubular member (1). The assembly need not employ any hydraulic components.