Obituary - Geoff Atkins

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of comrade Geoff Atkins following a long struggle with cancer. Geoff was an inspiration to workers and the trade unions as a class fighter and an advocate of the Marxist ideas supported by the Socialist and its predecessor Militant.

Geoff and others were pioneers in building support for Militant through the 1960s. Such determined efforts laid the foundations for Militant's rapid growth in the 80s.

Geoff was one of a group of young socialists who joined Militant in Brighton from the Young Communist League in the 60s. His theoretical clarity and the conviction to argue for his ideas made him a feared opponent of the right wing on Southampton Labour Party's general committee as support grew for Militant, with supporters elected to the city council in the 80s.

Very active during the miners' strike and then in the Anti-Poll Tax campaign, he was always enthusiastic and set a confident example for the new generation to follow. Aside from his political fervour, parties at Geoff and Sue's were always a night to remember and it was in this spirit that he and Sue approached the last few years, continuing to live life to the full.

Geoff continued to follow political events closely. In February he attended Southampton's anti-cuts demonstration, saying how much more he wanted to do. In May he nominated his local TUSC candidate for the Southampton elections. Geoff was greatly respected and will be much missed by comrades, friends and family. Our best wishes and thoughts go to Sue, Alan, David and family.

Nick Chaffey

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