Colchester boss Phil Parkinson says he had no choice but to release experienced midfielder Bobby Bowry.
The 34-year-old former and Crystal Palace and Millwall made 117 appearances for the U's. "We did try to make room for him in the budget because he's a great character to have around," manager Phil Parkinson told the club's website.
"Bobby is also a good player but with the midfielders we have here, I had to let him go."