A giant billboard poster has been erected in Limerick City's main thoroughfare of O'Connell Street in honour of Paul O'Connell, who announced his retirement from rugby this week.

Limerick City and County Council installed the banner featuring a photo of the former Munster and Ireland star and the caption of 'Limerick Born and Red'.

Councillor Liam Galvin, Mayor of the City and County of Limerick said the gesture is representative of the "warm affection with which Paul is held by the people of Limerick."

"Paul has been a wonderful ambassador for Limerick and for the sport of rugby and it is only right and fitting that we pay this public tribute to him," said the Mayor.

Our tribute to Paul O'Connell - an ambassador for #Limerick and for the sport of rugby #ThanksPaulie pic.twitter.com/esaZD4uqV3

— Limerick Council (@LimerickCouncil) February 12, 2016

"Paul has created some wonderful sporting memories for the people of this country throughout his illustrious career with Munster, Ireland and the Lions. He has in no small way helped to establish Limerick as a sporting capital in Ireland and I have no doubt that he, as Freeman of Limerick, will continue to be a key figure in local sport and the community for years to come.

The former Munster, Ireland and Lions captain announced his retirement on Tuesday after receiving medical advice following an injury during the World Cup against France.