Rumours are growing about the health of former Cuban leader Fidel Castro after a Venezuelan doctor claimed the 86-year-old had suffered a massive stroke.

One of Fidel Castro’s sons has said his father is in good shape despite a long public silence that has again fuelled speculation about the 86-year-old former Cuban president’s health.

Cuba unveiled what it said is a recent photograph of ex-President Fidel Castro, showing him looking healthier than in other pictures since he underwent emergency surgery three years ago.