Funeral of Sunderland print boss to be held this week

Martyn Young died on Friday, February 17, following an incident involving a forklift truck at the Precision Printing site on Sunderland Enterprise Park, off Wessington Way.

Company bosses confirmed Mr Young died as a result of injuries sustained in the incident.

Northumbria Police are working alongside the Health and Safety Executive to investigate the circumstances of the accident.

Mr Young had initially founded the First 2 Print business, which was taken over by London-based Precision Printing in 2014.

A blog post on the Precision Printing website written by Gary Peeling features glowing tributes to Mr Young.

He wrote: “Martyn was highly admired among the business community in the North East which has been rocked by this sudden loss.

“Always happy to step up and help anyone, he understood more than anyone that what you put into things is what you get out of them.

“His impact was not just local, the news spread throughout the industry.

“A print business as far as Sydney, Australia, stopped its operations for a moment as the director shared this unforeseen news with the team.

“His family and colleagues have been overwhelmed by the support from customers, suppliers and equipment manufacturers.

“All of whom identified the unique passion and enthusiasm which Martyn conducted himself with.”

Mr Peeling added: “It’s clear that Martyn could identify talent.

“By providing inspirational leadership and support he leaves behind a dedicated team with a focused vision for the future.

“The industry has lost one of its brightest talents.

“His business legacy is clear to see, but more importantly Martyn’s “can do” spirit will live on in the many he inspired all over the world.”

A fund has also been set up to raise money in Mr Young’s memory, with the Great North Air Ambulance, Arc Adoption North East and the Foundation of Light.

All three causes were said to be “close to Martyn’s heart”.

The fund has so far gathered over £1,800 towards its £2,000 target.

Mr Young’s funeral will be held at St Cuthbert’s Church, in North Road, Durham City, at 2.15pm on Thursday.

A wake will then take place at the Stadium of Light from 3.30pm onwards.

To donate to the appeal in Mr Young’s memory go to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/martynyoung.