The jet made a spectacular sight on Monday - picture by Mark Payne

The men, from South Gloucestershire Council, were resurfacing Ratcliffe Drive in Stoke Gifford, when they struck the hydrant, Bristol Water said.

"Hydrants are at such a high pressure that we had to cut the mains supply off at once," a spokeswoman said.

She added that the 35ft-high jet of water was turned off within an hour and the repairs took a further five hours.

A spokesperson for South Gloucestershire Council said: "The damage was caused when contractors were carrying out essential maintenance.

"We contacted the water company immediately and worked with them to ensure the damage was rectified as soon as possible.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused to residents."