Composite connectors and methods of manufacturing the same

A method of manufacturing a composite connector for a fluid transfer conduit, the method comprising:

• manufacturing a continuous fibre pre-form net that is shaped to comprise a hub-forming portion and a flange-forming portion, the continuous fibre pre-form net comprising continuous fibre reinforcement and a common support layer to which the continuous fibre reinforcement is secured by being stitched thereto, wherein at least some of the continuous fibre reinforcement extends between the hub-forming portion and the flange-forming portion;
• placing the continuous fibre pre-form net into a mould, the mould being shaped such that the hub-forming portion forms a tubular hub portion which extends along a central axis and the flange-forming portion forms a flange portion which extends from the hub portion at an angle to the central axis;
• and
• introducing polymer into the mould so as to form a composite connector comprising the flange portion and the hub portion.