This was the dramatic scene as a water main burst in Margate this morning.

Homes and cars were drenched as the deluge reached as high as the roofs of neighbouring properties in Dane Road.

The leak was caused by Southern Water contractors and water supplies to some properties were temporarily interrupted.

Southern Water spokesman Mike James said: "Southern Water contractors working on metering installations inadvertently caused a leak to a water mains.

"Residents in 46 neighbouring properties were given notice that their water supplies may be temporarily interrupted while a repair was quickly made.

"Water supplies to some of the 46 properties were turned off at 12.48pm and restored at 1.30pm. Southern Water apologises for any inconvenience caused."

Paul Messenger, of Kings Mews, Margate, said: "I saw the jet of water go up from my place just 100 yards down the road.

"The inside of the whole house next to it must be soaked.

"I overheard the men working on it being told to move away but they said it was a serious situation and they wouldn't."