Gardai are ramping up their search for Stephen Cunningham, who went missing from Galway in 2021, after items of his clothing were found near Maam Cross in Connemara.
Stephen’s shoes and socks were located in recent days, and have sparked a renewed appeal for help in locating the 32-year-old.
The young man has not been seen since November 2021, but his family has now spoken out following the discovery of his belongings and they are calling on the public to help in their continued search.
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He is described as being approximately 6' 2" in height with a thin build, sandy/blond hair, and may have a beard and blue eyes.
The family issued an update last night via Dunmore MacHales GAA that read: "On Sunday we found Stephen’s shoes and socks located in an open area between a small lake and forest not too far from Maam Cross.
"This has brought a renewed focus to the search.
"The Garda and their teams have been quick to react to our finding and the last couple of days has seen the operation ramp up around the area where his shoes were found.
"We are looking for anyone and everyone willing to search this very marshy forest bogland this weekend as we plan extensive searching of the area on Saturday and Sunday.”
The family, along with a search party of volunteers will be meeting at the car park in Maam Cross on both days at 9:30 am.
Their statement went on to say: "We would like to thank everyone that has supported us so far and anyone that can come either day would be greatly appreciated.
"Wellies, rain gear, high vis, and warm clothing are essential."
Stephen first went missing on November 2, 2021, and his disappearance prompted a massive and ongoing search since this date.
A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana said at the time: “Gardaí are seeking the public's assistance in tracing the whereabouts of 32 year old Stephen Cunningham who has been missing from Ballybrit, Galway since Tuesday 2nd November, 2021.
“Stephen is described as being approximately 6' 2" in height with a thin build, sandy/blond hair and may have a beard and blue eyes.
“Stephen was last seen on 2nd November, 2021 at approximately 11am in Galway city. It is unknown what he was wearing at the time. It is believed that Stephen may be in the Maam Cross/Clifden area of Galway.”
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