Former England international Mark Ilott is to leave Essex at the end of the season.

The club announced they would not be renewing the contract of the 32-year-old, who is currently in his benefit year.

Ilott made his first class debut for Essex in 1988 and played in five Test matches for England.

He has been struggling with his fitness and, although fully recovered, has agreed with the club that it was mutually beneficial for him to leave.

"But I would like to thank the club and its members for all their support during my career, and in particular during my benefit year.

" I very much hope to carry on playing should a suitable opportunity arise."

Batsman Richard Clinton is also on the look-out for a new county after the club decided not to renew his contract.

The 21-year-old made a promising start to his county career in 2001 but his progress has been hampered by injury problems this summer.

"Because of the depth of batting we have in Essex at the moment, he would probably not get sufficient chances to play first team cricket, which would be very disappointing for a player of his potential," said chief executive David East.