A fresh drive has been launched to entice doctors to work as GPs – and psychiatrists – in Wales.

The Welsh government is hoping to repeat the success of last year’s campaign, which has enabled it to fill 91% of GP training places this year.

Yesterday’s launch focused on the remote county of Pembrokeshire, which in 2016 was unable to attract a single GP trainee.

Wales said it would continue to compete with England in offering £20,000 cash bonuses to doctors who choose to train in areas such as Pembrokeshire.

It is also offering a bonus of £1,900 to psychiatry trainees. The cash will pay for college membership exams.

London-born Dr Harriet Poynter, who has earned the bonus by taking a training place in Pembrokeshire this year, said: “I am already seeing the benefits of a move to Pembrokeshire. The best thing about working in the hospital here is the effect the Welsh education contract is having on my training, allowing me to meet all my training needs.

“I’m also enjoying living on the coast, even the drive to work still amazes me. There is so much to do here and everyone is so friendly and welcoming.”

Welsh health secretary Vaughan Gething said: “For those considering a career in Wales it’s important to highlight the benefits of working and living here, including an Education Contract for junior doctors, the first in the UK. It guarantees ring-fenced time for learning within the working week to ensure trainee doctors will have access to a wide range of educational opportunities to support their career development.

“I’m proud of the impact this campaign has had so far. It has shown that Wales is not only an excellent place to live but it’s also a great place to train and work. I am sure it will continue to go from strength to strength.”