STALWART Simon Browne's Weymouth career is over.

The long-serving defender has today been released by the club along with youngsters Charlie Welch, Ludovic Cadima and Francisco Ramos.

Browne made his debut for the Terras aged 15 and manager Garry Hill admits it was a hard decision letting him go.

Hill told Echosport: "It was a difficult decision to make because Simon's attitude, effort and commitment since I arrived at the club has been second to none.

"I can't speak highly enough of him but unfortunately our switch to full-time status in the summer poses a few problems for him meaning we've had to take this decision.

"Simon has a good career outside football and naturally needs to think about his family commitments as this stage of his life.

"He has been a great servant over the years and is a big Weymouth fan and I was pleased we were able to shake hands and wish each other all the best for the future."

Browne's departure is likely to alert Dorchester Town, Salisbury City and Bashley while there is speculation linking the 34-year-old with a possible player-manager's role at Portland United.

Hill added: "I've not doubt that Simon will be an asset for any club with his experience, knowledge and ability.

"I wish him all the best and hopefully we'll see him back at Weymouth in the future either playing against us or on the terraces."

More talks are planned with Ian Hutchinson who was expected to be shown the door, but Hill said he hopes the veteran midfielder can remain with the club.

Aside from the four players released, Hill will not be following up his interest in strikers Vill Powell and Charlie Macdonald who have been at Radipole Lane on short-term deals.

"The situation with both Vill and Charlie Macdonald is that I need players to be 100 per cent committed to the club who are willing to relocate so we can get the best out of them," he said.

"Unfortunately that wouldn't be the case with Vill and Charlie so I'll be looking elsewhere.

"As far as releasing the other lads, I wanted to be fair to Charlie, Ludo and Francisco and take the decision early to allow them to find a new club."

Keeper Jason Matthews and midfielders Darren Wheeler, Brian Dutton and Steve Clark have signed new one-year deals to stay with the Terras. Defender Bradley Thomas is currently pondering a similar offer.

He said: "I've been really pleased with the boys I've offered contracts to and they've shown me they want to be part of what we're trying to achieve at the club.

"I'm sure they will get even better when we start full-time in July and Weymouth will benefit as a result."