The Defence Forces say a search for Ben Garrett will resume at 8.30am Sunday.

A wide-scale search has been taking place around Galway city for the missing Mayo man.

Searches got underway in Galway city, as a large crowd of people gathered at Mill Street garda station.

Members of his family had asked anyone who can help with the search to meet at the city centre station and a huge number of people responded.

Image via @defenceforces on Twitter

Mr Garrett is a Private in the Irish Defence Forces, and a separate search also set out from the army barracks in Renmore.

Mr Garrett, who is from Castlebar, was last seen in the Eglington Street area of Galway city at approximately 1.45am on Thursday.

He is described as being approximately 6ft in height, with short brown hair and of athletic build.

When last seen he was wearing dark jeans and a light blue Hollister jumper.

Members of the Defence Forces involved in the search | Image via @defenceforces on Twitter

"We would really appreciate if you could come and help," a family member wrote on Facebook.

Anyone who has seen Ben, or who can help find him, is asked to contact Galway garda station on 091-538-000.

Members of the public who wish to help should go to Calasanctius College in Oranmore from 8.30am on Sunday morning.