Defender Joe Ellul has left Maidstone after the club agreed to cancel his contract.

He departs the Gallagher on the understanding he doesn't sign for another National League or National South club this season.

Ellul has landed a new job outside of football, meaning he can no longer commit to daytime training three times a week.

Stones chief executive Bill Williams said: "We would like to thank Joe for all he has done, particularly being part of last season's championship team, and wish him and his family every success in the future."

Centre-half Ellul made 53 appearances in two-and-a-half years and was voted supporters' player-of-the-season as Maidstone won the National South title.

Amid the euphoria of last season's promotion celebrations, the 34-year-old said United would be the final club of his career.

His final appearance came in last week's 3-0 home defeat by Aldershot, when he was substituted at half-time.