Do i have to inform air traffic control of helium balloon's i release?

My partner and friends are organising a charity liverpool and everton football match for supporters in aid of cancer research. I was told by BOC gasses that because we live so close to liverpool airport i have to ask for permission from air traffic control. Can anyone shed some light on this matter?

sorry but i have no idea..

but you shouldnt release balloons into the air becasue i read that birds flying in the air can pop them with their beaks and then the balloon skin gets stuck on the beak and they cant get it off and then the bird starves to death because they cant eat!! :[[ so dont do it!

More than likely. It would be sensible, anyway, as the balloons will create a radar target and cause confusion at the very least. If I were you, I'd check before you do any more organising - I have a feeling at the back of my mind somewhere that there is legislation about this within a certain proximity to an airport, there certainly is about flying kites.

I think it comes under the Air Navigation Order. Article 50 of the Order requires that a person shall not recklessly or negligently act in a manner likely to endanger an
aircraft, or any person therein.

It's probably a good idea.
The best bet is to call up your local council (probably the environment/environmental health department) and ask.

:)