LONG-SERVING Margate defender Billy Edwards is among six players not being retained by the Hartsdown Park club.

Edwards made 475 appearances in nearly a decade with the club, scoring five goals, putting him fifth in the list of post war all-time appearances, behind Bob Harrop (564), Terry Joyce (526), Norman Fusco (494) and Ray Summers (485).

Player-manager Robin Trott said: "It was a sad time having to tell Billy my decision, but he’s a man’s man and was fine."

Director Keith Piper also paid tribute to Edwards' contribution to the club.

"Bill has been a massive player for Margate, totally loyal and committed, the sort every club hopes to sign when they join a club," he said. "He has been an outstanding servant."

Club historian Jeff Trice added: "Bill’s record says it all about his contribution to the club. He is an absolute legend."

Edwards has been granted a testimonial by the club, with FA Cup runners-up West Ham United his favoured opponents, a date and time still to be agreed.