He started his career in print as an apprentice at Nuffield Press in the late 1960s, founding Maurice Payne Colourprint in 1983. During his 27 years at the company he secured a number of firsts, including the UK's first five-colour press and the world's first installation of two 12-colour perfectors and was described as a "trailblazer" for the commercial adoption of UV printing.

"He was a man who always embraced new technology and saw the opportunities it could create," said Heidelberg UK Managing director George Clarke. "He was a warm, colourful and courageous character. It's a terrible loss."

Payne maintained an active role at the business to the end, but handed day-to-day running of the 60-staff company to his two sons, Finn and Tom, last year.

''Maurice was an eternal optimist in his business and social life. There was nothing more he enjoyed than taking his family on adventures around the world, puffing on Rothmans in his office and watching a bit of rugby. Maurice was a great father and great business man,'' said Finn Payne.

Details of the funeral, which will be held on Friday 4 February are currently being finalised, but anyone wishing to attend should email: finn@mp-colourprint.co.uk for more information.