Workmen near flushing caused a jet of water "20 to 30 feet high" when they accidentally hit a mains pipe on Thursday.
Jim Hall, who is in the area on holiday, was walking uphill from the riverside when he passed the workmen at the side of the road.
He said: "There was a big shout, we turned round and there was a digger digging a hole.
"It must have cut the water mains, and it was squirting 20 to 30 feet up in the air."
A spokesman for South West Water said: "The jet of water came from a leak which was caused by the failure of a joint with a service pipe connected to the main in Trefusis Road.
"It was reported to us at 11.45 and a team was sent immediately. Repair was completed by 14.20.
"Water supply was interrupted for approximately 2 hours, affecting 116 properties. We would like to thank our customers for their patience and apologise for any inconvenience caused."
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