https://www.bbc.com/news/business-49715838

Helium shortage: 'Prices just keep going up and up'

MrDurnford says the cost of the helium he buys has risen three times this year,between 8% and 10% each time.

For example, it'scrucial in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans that doctors use to getdetailed images from inside patients.

It'salso important in deep sea diving and in scientific research, as well as forthe production of computer chips and liquid crystal displays such as TVscreens.

"Butit's safe to say the price has gone up 50% to 100%, depending on who you areand where you are in the supply chain."

Andthey've had to increase prices. Buying 50 standard-sized balloons costs £6.49,but if a customer wants those filled with helium, the price is just over 10times that at £69.