Painter, draughtsman, printmaker and teacher, born in Bearwood, near Birmingham. He studied at Hornsey College of Art, 1934–40 and 1946–7, teachers including J C Moody, Norman Janes and Douglas Percy Bliss, his studies interrupted by Army service. During this, which involved postings in England and north Africa, while stationed at Waddon Deakins was able to attend art classes run by Ruskin Spear at Croydon and John Farleigh at the Central School of Art. He taught at Edmonton County School, 1947–8; lectured in illustration at Willesden School of Art, 1949–52; was art editor for Iliffe & Sons, 1953–7; was a freelance illustrator, 1957–71; then from 1971–81 was head of art at St John Payne School, Chelmsford. Deakins showed with RA, NEAC, RBA, RI and RE.