Stourbridge FC will go into the BGB Premier Division without star striker Mark Bellingham following his shock departure from the War Memorial Ground.

The forward, who has been out since Christmas with knee ligament damage has decided to leave the club because of his work and family commitments.

Bellingham who has finished as the club's top goalscorer for the last four seasons will leave with a phenomanal record of 145 goals in 169 appearances.

The fan's favourite did not leave without posting a farewell message on the clubs official website.

Bellingham said: "After four fantastic seasons with the club I sadly have to say goodbye.

"Ultimately, due to the added committment the club would require and deserve following promotion, I feel I would be unable to meet those standards I believe would be required.

"Gary has done a sterling job to convince me otherwise and I am extremely grateful for the understanding and flexibility he has shown me for the past four years but with my committments, I do not believe that I could make that transition without sacrificing the balance with family and work life.

Bellingham added that without the support he has been shown both on and off the club by he would never have scored his incredible tally of goals.

He added: "I would like to say that it has been an honour to play for the club.

"My team mates have worked so hard it has been embarassing to take the plaudits when I have only scored the goals because of their hard work, creativity and strength of character.

"The management team have shown me a great deal of trust, belief and flexibility that I doubt I would have been afforded elsewhere.

"Most of all, a massive thanks to Gary Hackett who has never wavered from being a gentleman even in circumstances when most of us would have been hard pushed.

"I wish the club every success for next season and the future beyond."

Club press officer Nigel Gregg said: "The club would like to thank Mark for his outstanding efforts in a Stourbridge shirt and for his part in helping us to two promotions in three seasons."