Mr Atkins joined the Manchester-based wood recycling company in 2008, and was part of the front-end recycling team. His role involved him working with companies and local authorities across the country, sourcing waste wood for recycling.
Geoff Hadfield, managing director of Hadfield Wood Recyclers, highlighted Mr Atkins stature in the industry and paid tribute to both his hard work and his personality.
Tom was a really lovely guy and had made himself very well known in the industry, not only through his conscientious approach to work but also through his attitude and personality, he said.
He always saw the funny side of things and had a quip suitable for any situation. It was typical of Tom that he was laughing and joking with the doctors and nurses caring for him right up until the end.
Tom will be sadly missed by all at Hadfields and by the many friends and colleagues he had made throughout the business, he added.
Mr Atkins funeral is taking place this afternoon (July 8) in his hometown of Stoke.
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