Career
Atkins was a full back who worked through the ranks of Huddersfield Town. He made his debut in February 1960 when he gave away a penalty in a 1–1 draw with Sunderland. He ended up playing for 13 years at Huddersfield playing in more than 200 games.
He joined his hometown team in March 1968 in a swap deal.
He played more than 100 games for Bradford City over four seasons until he retired to become a teacher. He briefly returned to the club to act as liaison officer between City and local schools and junior football.