Ian Atkinson played for Exeter City in 1957. He joined the club from Carlisle United and later played for Poole Town.

He signed professional terms with Carlisle United and went on to score 54 goals in 123 league appearances before joining the Grecians in July 1957 in an exchange deal for George Lackenby.

Making his debut in the opening game of the 1957/58 season - a 5-0 home defeat at the hands of Southend United - Ian played just eight league games for City scoring twice against Aldershot and Coventry City. Transfer listed by Exeter for a fee of £750 - later reduced to £150 - he signed for Southern League Poole Town in the summer of 1958.

Ian Atkinson died in Poole in 1995.