Edwards, 62, took over the North London-based HM Printers, a B1 and B2 sheet fed litho printer formerly known as Hedley Molyneux the Printers, in 1970.

He was involved in local politics for more than 20 years and served as Wokingham District Councillor for the Norreys Ward from 1997 to 2003, and as chairman of Wokingham Conservative Association.

Edwards’ family said in a statement that his death had come as a "great shock" following a "short devastating illness". He leaves behind his wife, Evelyn, sons Dominic, Jonathan and Matthew and his mother Peggy.

His funeral will take place at All Saints’ Church in Wokingham, Berkshire, on 22 July at 11.30am. In his memory, his family are asking for donations to the Duchess of Kent House, the hospice where he spent his last few days.

Donations should be sent to the Funeral Directors, A B Walker and Son, Blyth House, 105 London Road, Wokingham, RG40 1YB.