KIDDERMINSTER Harriers boss Mark Yates has triggered another frantic season of transfer activity at Aggborough by releasing half of his under-achieving squad.

Goalkeepers John Danby and Daniel Lewis have both been shown the door as part of the cull which also sees skipper Daryl Burgess and experienced midfielder Terry Fleming depart after just a season at the club.

Gareth Sheldon, Lee Thompson and Wayne Graves have also been freed after failing to live up to their reputations since signing for former manager Stuart Watkiss.

Only striker Luke Reynolds, wingers Simon Russell, Michael Blackwood and Michael McGrath and defender Jonny Harkness have been offered new deals as Yates and assistant manager Neil Howarth go back to the drawing board.

Jake Sedgemore, Russ Penn and Gavin Hurren are already signed up for next season.

Supporters' player of the season Johnny Mullins has returned to Reading to see if he has a future with Steve Coppell's Premiership-bound Royals.

Yates was given an indication of his playing budget following a board meeting last week and the manager and directors are anxious to avoid the dallying which left the club at a disadvantage in the transfer market last summer.

"We need to put together a squad that can compete at this level and I'm determined to do that," said Yates.