Leyton Orient captain Nathan Clarke is leaving the club to move back up north to live with his family.

The O's skipper has lived apart from his young family for the last three seasons since moving from Huddersfield Town in 2012. 

Clarke has one year left on his contract and is not known whether Orient will cancel his contract or expect a transfer fee for the 31-year-old.

His exit means Ian Hendon's side are short of players in defence with Shane Lowry, who has a relegation release clause, also looking to leave the club this summer. 

Clarke told the club website: "Firstly I would like to start by saying how proud I have been, being captain of this football club, I have played with the best group of lads in my time here and made some true friends and some great memories.

"In my time here I have had unbelievable support from the fans and I hope they could see I gave everything for the team. 

"This is why this decision has not been easy, but for the past three years while playing here, I have been away from my young family, my wife and two girls have been so supportive in this time, but I feel living apart has become too hard. I have on many occasions put the club before my family's happiness and that should never happen. 

"I have made the decision to leave and move back north to be at home with my family. I would like to thank everyone associated with Leyton Orient and I will always be a fan.

"I would also like to thank the manager for understanding my reasons and supporting me."

"I hope everyone understands my reasons and I  wish the club every success in the up-coming season."

Clarke's departure follows the news former Orient striker Darius Henderson has joined Scunthorpe United on a one-year contract.