CAPTAIN Stuart Whitehead has been released from Harriers by mutual consent.

The defender was released from his contract by the club after agreeing it was time to move on.

Whitehead was an important figure in Harriers' success last season, forging a formidable partnership with Mark Creighton, as Harriers powered their way to the FA Carlsberg Trophy Final at the new Wembley Stadium in May.

The former Bolton, Carlisle and Darlington man struggled to repeat last season's consistency as Harriers leaked goals in the Blue Square Premier. He also struggled to find his form after hernia surgery at the start of the season disrupted him.

After getting sent off in December's Setanta Shield win over Hinckley United the defender fell down the pecking order over Christmas.

Out of sorts displays against Farsley Celtic, Weymouth and Droylsden in recent may have also sealed his fate.

He joined from Shrewsbury Town in the summer of 2006.

Manager Mark Yates has also signed striker Darryl Knights on loan until the end of the season.