The RLEF has sent its condolences to the family of Hervé Guiraud, the Secretary General of the French Federation who died yesterday from a lung disease. A former France international, M Guiraud was a board member of both the Rugby League European Federation and Rugby League International Federation and was a significant figure in the French game.

Chairman of the European Federation, Richard Lewis commented: “Herve was always such a gentleman whenever I met him. Very modest and unassuming but with a ready smile and sense of humour. His knowledge and love of Rugby League was immense and he could be relied upon to be great support at RLEF and RLIF meetings. He will be sadly missed”.

RLEF General Manager Danny Kazandjian added his personal tribute: It’s a bitterly sad day for rugby league. The sport has lost one of its most devoted servants and accomplished administrators. Hervé was the most genial of men, always so positive and personable, and I speak on behalf of the entire European rugby league family in expressing our heartfelt condolences to Hervé’s family and to the French Federation.”