A method of joining a pair of tubular ends (1, 2) comprises: providing the tubular ends with intermeshing tapered edges (3, 4); joining the tubular ends by inserting an adhesive between the tapered edges and pressing the tapered edges (3, 4) together; arranging an axial load carrier collar (5) around the joined tubular ends; inserting an adhesive between the inner surface of the collar (5) and the outer surfaces of the joined tubular ends (3, 4); and inducing the adhesive to bond the inner surface of the collar (5) to the outer surfaces of the joined tubular ends. The axial load carrier collar (5) may be equipped with a series of flexible reinforcement strips (8, 9), which carry a majority of axial loads exerted on the tubular joint, such that only a minimal axial load is exerted on the bonded tapered edges (3, 4).