The managing director of Scotland’s largest local newspaper group has been given a lifetime achievement award.

Alex Cargill, of Scottish & United Newspapers, was presented with the honour by the Publicity Club of Glasgow at the Adline Cream Advertising Awards.

It is the first time the award has been presented and Publicity Club president, Kevin Gallagher, paid tribute to the winner.

He said: “The essence of the award is ‘truly outstanding work without compromise on standards’, and Alex Cargill more than meets these criteria.

“He also meets the other standards we were looking for – someone with a long and illustrious career who has put a lot back into the industry, and has a future role to play as well as significant achievements in the past.

“Although Alex has never been directly involved with the Publicity Club he has nurtured the talent and careers of three of our presidents, and without his support the club would not be in as good shape as it is today.

“His giving something back is not limited to our organisation as he is currently president of the Scottish Newspaper Publishers Association, which flourishes under his stewardship.”

Alex said: “I feel very honoured to be recognised in this way, particularly since it is the Publicity Club’s first ever Lifetime Achievement Award.

“In thanking the Publicity Club, I would also like to thank members of my team at S&UN for their support and commitment.”

Alex began his career in newspapers in 1974 when he joined the Lennox Herald. He has since worked in every Scottish & Universal Newspapers region in Scotland. In 1984 he became a board member of the company before taking over managing director in 1999.