Essex have begun their rebuilding process by announcing that James Middlebrook and Jahid Ahmed have been released.

The struggling county will also be without Jason Gallian next season, as he has announced his retirement from the game.

However, John Maunders and Tony Palladino have been offered new one year contracts, as Essex try to find the winning formula again after a rather dismal season.

They are languishing near the foot of LV County Championship division two and have won only one of their three games in the Natwest Pro40.

The twenty20 campaign was brought to an abrupt end when Essex failed to qualify for the quarter-finals, although they did reach the quarter-final of the Friends Provident Trophy.

Middlebrook is the biggest name to go, having been with Essex for eight years.

The off-spinner’s appearances have become more and more infrequent, with Danish Kaneria taking care of the spin department.

Middlebrook said: “It’s been great to play a major part in a winning team over the past eight years at Essex.

“I’m in the prime now and have a wealth of experience and skill to offer a new county club.”

Ahmed, the former Burnham and Maldon seamer, joined Essex in 2005 but has played in only seven first-class matches.

He said: “I started playing when I was 17 where I started off in the Essex Academy.

“I progressed to earn a contract with Essex.

“Going forward I hope to earn myself a new contract with another County.

“I am not giving up, I am determined to be a success and will do all I can to stay within the game.

“The highlight of my time with Essex was my debut in 2005 versus Australia.

“I have had a fantastic time playing with and against some great players. I would like to thank all at Essex for the service that they have provided me.”

Coach Paul Grayson explained the reasons for the player’s release.

He said: “Jason (Gallian) has done well for us for the past two years. He played some really good one-day cricket in 2008. “Unfortunately he has struggled for runs in the LV County Championship this season.

“James has served Essex really well in the last eight years.

“We have reflected long and hard on the balance of our squad going forward, and feel that James’ opportunities will become progressively limited.

“He clearly has a lot to offer the game and we will support him in every way in finding him a new challenge elsewhere.”

“Jahid is a young prospect, although he has been unable to force his way into the first XI squad and he currently sits down the bowling pecking order here at Essex.

“We owe it to Jahid to allow him a chance with another County.”