UK Citizens Residing in Fethiye Swim for Charity to Support Children and Street Animals

British citizens living in Fethiye welcomed the New Year with a charity sea swim, raising donations for children in need and the protection of street animals.

Foreign residents living in Fethiye, the majority of whom are UK citizens, marked the first day of the New Year by taking part in a charity sea swim at Çalış Beach. Wearing colourful and creative costumes, participants entered the sea to raise funds for disadvantaged children and street animals.

The event, which has become a long-standing tradition in the region, attracted both local residents and foreign nationals who have made Fethiye their permanent or seasonal home. Despite the winter season, participants swam in sea temperatures measured at nearly 20°C, creating cheerful scenes along the coastline.

Charity organisers highlighted that the event is held every year on January 1st to support social causes and strengthen community solidarity. Donations collected during the swim are used to assist children in need and to provide food, care and medical support for street animals.

Foreign residents in Fethiye—particularly those from the UK—are widely known for their active role in protecting street animals. In recent years, they have consistently shown strong commitment to animal welfare, stepping up efforts to safeguard stray animals amid negative campaigns and difficult conditions. Many contribute regularly through feeding programmes, veterinary support and voluntary care.

This New Year’s swim once again demonstrated how the foreign community in Fethiye plays a positive role in local social life, combining charity, awareness and community spirit while supporting both vulnerable children and animals.

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