The east of England is one of four areas in the country to have the maximum number of GP trainees accepted for training, figures show.

According to statistics presented by Health Education England there were 319 people accepted for third round GP training in 2015 in the region.

Professor Simon Gregory, director and dean of education and quality for the Midlands and East said: 'This shows us that being a GP is still a career that people want to pursue. It is a great platform from which to continue our work to increase GP numbers.

'However, we know that there is more to do in parts of the country where attracting GPs continues to be a challenge.

'This is something that we will focus our efforts on over the coming months.'

Kym Merritt, GP ambassador for Health Education England, said: 'Being a GP is a fantastic career choice.

'It involves dealing with everything from a chest infection to supporting a family when they have lost a loved one.

'You are everything from listener to educator. General practice really does offer so much. It really is the best job in the world.'