Circus owner Hanneford dead at 78

SARASOTA, Fla., Dec. 10 (UPI) -- Royal Hanneford Circus owner and clown Tommy Hanneford has died in Sarasota, Fla., at age 78.

Known as "the funniest man on horseback," Hanneford died Monday after a short illness, The New York Times reported.

Hanneford's last appearance with the circus was three weeks ago at a Shriner's Circus in Springfield, Ill.

Hanneford began as a clown at age 5 and in addition to his circus duties, served as a technical adviser for TV productions. He also appeared in the 1986 television movie "Barnum."

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Gertrude, as well as a daughter, a brother and three grandchildren.