TAUNTON Town defender Ed Palmer has announced that he will not be staying at the club for next season after playing an integral role in the Peacocks' memorable 2016/17 campaign.

In a statement released via Twitter (below), Palmer said it was the "hardest decision he has had to make" but wished his former teammates well as they prepare for another promotion tilt next season.

Palmer played a key role in the Peacocks defence last season, and earned a reputation as a set-piece specialist after netting excellent free-kicks against Barrow and Hereford, among others.

His final match for the club was not one to remember, however, as Palmer was sent off in the closing stages of the 3-1 play-off semi-final defeat at local rivals Tiverton Town.

The defender is the first recognised departure in what could be a busy summer for the club, who are hoping to bring in some fresh faces in their quest to progress out of the Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West.