A statement from Mark Andy, which makes narrow web flexo presses for the self-adhesive market and also has offices in the US and Switzerland, said that Richardson was an industry visionary who brought ‘passion and charisma’ to everything he was involved in.

Richardson was the managing director of the Cheshire-based Stanley Press Equipment prior to founding Mark Andy UK in 1993. He retired in 2002.

Paul Briggs, who took over as managing director of Mark Andy UK after Richardson retired, said: "I worked with Michael from 1977 until he retired. He was an inspirational leader and had great foresight. He was very honest and upright and always looked after people."

The funeral service will take place on 5 July at 12.15pm at St Michael’s Church, Market Place, Macclesfield. The Richardson family has requested that any donations should be forwarded to The Christie hospital in Manchester.