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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.