Dane started work in the late 1950s with E S & A Robinson and finished with his own consultancy, Reel Print Management, where he remained an active part of the business until the last month of his life.

He was the oldest of three brothers, including Peter Dane, who ran print consultants LPD for many years, and current ec2i managing director Mark Dane, who said the most enjoyable part of his brother's career had been at Howitts, where he formed a formidable partnership with Pat Howitt.

"There are many in the industry who have enjoyed the experience of a night out with the two of them!" he added. "Paul never did anything by halves. He was of the old school that worked hard and played hard and there is many a tale to be told about heady days and nights. But he was also well respected in the business and knew its machinations inside out."

Around 200 people attended Dane's funeral last month, where he had insisted that no-one wore black, and which was followed by a party to celebrate his life.