The curtain is coming down on "The Greatest Show on Earth" after 146 years, as Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus lowers its big top for good.

Animals have lost a stalwart ally with the passing of PETA Honorary Director and entertainment giant Sam Simon.

A US federal judge ruled in favour of the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus in a case brought by animal rights activists who accused the circus of abusing elephants.

TV stuntman Steve-O has launched a one-man campaign against circus giants the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey after deciding to reveal all about the animal abuse he witnessed while training to be a clown.