PPA chairman Keith Jones described Read as "a person whos made a real difference" through her work on pass4press, proof4press, pic4press and "undoubtedly further iterations of the main brand".

"Debbie has been instrumental in using her knowledge, expertise and energy," Jones said. "Her enthusiasm truly inspires others and she has made an immense contribution to the digitisation of magazines."

Read praised the work of her committee and said: "Its a great honour and great for a production person to be honoured in this way."

Heseltine became the 14th recipient of the Marcus Morris Award, named in honour of the esteemed publisher and co-founder of the Eagle comic who died in 1989. He quipped: "I want to make it clear that the fact that I am the PPA member closest to 90 years of age had nothing to do with the choice!"

Heseltine paid special tribute to Haymarkets Lindsay Masters, Simon Tindall and David Fraser. "I extend my deep personal and grateful thanks it has been a privilege to work with them and all our staff."

He was presented with the award by Terry Mansfield CBE, director of the Hearst Corporation and The National Magazine Company, who won the Marcus Morris Award himself in 2001.

Digby Jones, director general of the CBI, also addressed the audience of publishers and clients assembled at Londons Dorchester Hotel.

The PPA has set up a new strategic partners programme and the five founder members - Polestar, St Ives, Stora Enso, Royal Mail and Royal Bank of Scotland - sponsored the event.