The low-key event was attended by Foley’s family and friends, including his wife Olive, father Brendan and former teammates Keith Wood and Marcus Horan.

“It’s a beautiful location and an outstanding tribute to him,” said Foley’s sister, Rosie.

“Anthony wouldn’t have liked the fuss or anything like that but at the same time we are delighted as a family to have him honoured in this way.

“We have been overwhelmed by all the kindnesses, including this. The outpouring is amazing, not just from the rugby community but the wider sporting community, supporters, people that we will never actually get to thank.

“But we really do appreciate all the help and support they have given us through a tough time.”

Unveiling the memorial, Mayor of Limerick Kieran O’Hanlon said: “This is a fanatical rugby city and county, with many heroes but they did not come bigger or prouder than Anthony Foley.

“Every rugby fan had their own special relationship with Anthony because he was that modest every day type of guy who just happened to be one of our greatest and most celebrated rugby stars.

“Given the city’s relationship with him and the sense of loss that people will have for a long time to come, a loss that pales in comparison with what his family is going through, we wanted to come up with something that the public could connect with and relate to and the memorial stone has done that for us.”