Jeremy Corbyn praises 'heroism' of revolutionary Fidel Castro

Jeremy Corbyn has hailed Fidel Castro as "a massive figure in the history of the whole planet", following news of the former Cuban leader's death.

The Labour leader praised the "heroism" of the revolutionary figure and commended the social changes he brought to the Caribbean island.

A long-standing supporter of the Cuba Solidarity Campaign, Mr Corbyn's views have courted controversy due to reports of widespread human rights abuses under Mr Castro's rule.

"I think history will show that Castro was such a key figure, it seems he has been with us forever," he told the Press Association.

The death of Mr Castro at the age of 90 was announced by his brother Raul Castro and followed years of speculation about his ill health.