When scientists at the National Institute for Medical Research heard last year that the Medical Research Council was considering closing its HQ, they used the media to vent their anger. Now, as efforts to resolve the dispute reach a critical stage, they have called in the Caped Crusader to fight their corner.
The new Batman film has started shooting at the Gothic-style institute in Mill Hill, in London, which will star as Gotham City's asylum.
If Hollywood stars including Gary Oldman and Katie Holmes don't give the research institute added sex appeal, perhaps the five-figure sum the institute is reported to have negotiated for the film will.