The public image of Cuba’s former leader Fidel Castro is that of the exemplary and frugal leader, but his bodyguard of 17 years claims it was a sham.

In his explosive book, Juan Reinaldo Sanchez contends that the vast majority of Cubans were unaware their leader enjoyed a lifestyle beyond the dreams of many and at odds with the sacrifices he demanded of them.

John Simpson interviewed Mr Sanchez for BBC’s Newsnight programme.

The Cuban foreign ministry did not reply to Newsnight’s request for a response to the interview.