Derbyshire have announced that three players are leaving the club with immediate effect. Batsman Stephen Moore is retiring, wicketkeeper Richard Johnson has been released from his contract at his own request and all-rounder Peter Burgoyne has had his deal cancelled by mutual consent.
Former England Lions batsman Moore, 31, has made his decision due to employment opportunities and family commitments.
The powerful right-hander, who represented the Lions in 2009, started his career at Worcestershire before moving to Lancashire from 2010 to 2013.
In December he joined Derbyshire on a two-year deal but has had limited success despite being a first-team regular.
Moore said: “I would like to thank Derbyshire for the opportunity they provided for me, but the time is right for me to step down, focus on my career away from the game, and spend more time with my family.”
Moore, who averaged over 36 in first-class cricket, added: “I can't speak highly enough of Derbyshire for the way they have handled my decision to retire, and for the warmth of my welcome and subsequent support for my family and I during my short stay at the club.”
Derbyshire elite performance director Graeme Welch added: “Stephen’s decision has come as a bit of a shock, but we respect that it’s right for him and wish him all the best for the future.
“Stephen hasn’t been at Derbyshire for very long, but he’s performed on the county circuit for over a decade. Congratulations to him on a great career.”
Johnson, 25, signed for Derbyshire from Warwickshire ahead of the 2013 season.
He took time out from the game earlier in the season and, having successfully applied to commence a degree course at university, has decided that a release from his full-time professional contract would enable him to focus on his studies.
Johnson has been easing himself back into cricket, playing for Knowle & Dorridge in the Birmingham & District Premier League.
While not ruling out a return to first class-cricket, Johnson will return home to the West Midlands where he intends to start his studies in the new academic year.
Johnson said: "I'd like to place on record my sincere thanks to my team-mates, the coaching staff and the admin team at Derbyshire for their support during my time with the club.
“They have a terrific set-up, which is not easy to leave, but I know I'm making the right decision for my long-term future.”
Burgoyne was given an extended period of absence from cricket in March due to stress-related issues in a move supported by the club and the Professional Cricketers' Association.
The 20-year-old academy graduate signed his first professional contract in 2012, going on to play five first-class and 13 limited-overs matches for the county.
Burgoyne said: "I am grateful to the club for the support provided to me throughout my career with Derbyshire and I wish the management team and players every success in the future.
"It's been a tough few months and a tough decision but I am really looking forward to playing club cricket again for a few months before making a decision about my future.
“I eventually would like to return to the first-class game but only when I feel 100% ready to do so.”