Williams had worked in the industry for 45 years, 32 of them at Pindar.

Industry colleagues and associates described him as 'a legend'.

"He's probably one of the most intelligent people to have worked in the industry," said Manroland director of web sales John Ellis. "He's very analytical, and has a fantastic dry sense of humour. He has also seen a lot of changes and adapted to them. We're going to miss him."

Williams may do some part-time consulting in the future for York Mailing, the new owner of Pindar's web offset business. "There's still life in print, and those that are still around are going to do well. York has great potential here to blend the best of both companies and make it work." he said.