To Jonah Lomu with love, from war-torn Libya

Last Friday rugby players gathered at a ground in Benghazi to show their affection for the All Black great they revered as the sport's godfather.

A remote rugby outpost in war-torn Libya has marked the death of Jonah Lomu with a day held in his honour.

Last Friday rugby players gathered at a ground in Benghazi to show their affection for the All Black great they revered as the sport's godfather.

Benghazi Rugby Group spokesman Abdelsalam Mohamed Elfarsi said the country's small rugby fraternity was left "grief stricken" by his sudden passing.

They decided to dedicate this year's annual Rugby Day to Lomu as a mark of respect.

"Jonah Lomu is like a godfather for us as rugby players," said Mr Elfarsi.

"We were stricken by the sad news of Jonah Lomu's passing. "Lomu was, and still is, admired by all rugby players in Libya and his performance and career motivate all Libyan players to strive upward."

He said despite the ongoing conflict, the players, referees, coaches and organisers were all determined to hold this event to honour the passing of the legend.

The club decorated their ground with colourful posters celebrating Lomu's life.

Mr Elfarsi said despite all the difficulties of a country beset by civil war Rugby Day was a success.

He said the event attracted the attention of locals who had the chance to learn who Lomu was and his great contribution to the sport.