Court staff don capes to battle cancer

The other runners might not have much of a chance with superheroes at the Relay for Life on Saturday.

Justice Department staff who work at the Whanganui courthouse will don their capes and costumes to raise money in the fight against cancer.

"All of us knew or know of someone who has had cancer. I've had a step-sister who has fought through it and my grandmother has died of it," sais one of the staff members.

"Its as common as a winter cold."

Because they work in the court system the superheroes have decided to keep their identities a secret.

"Well you know what they say: with great power comes great responsibility" said Batman.

The Relay for Life is on Saturday at Cooks Gardens in Whanganui. It runs from 11am to 11pm, 12 hours shorter than last year.

The relay, which involves teams of people walking round the track non stop, is a fundraiser for the Cancer Society.