A HITMAN who gunned down a rival Tottenham gangster in a "sudden" and "shocking" revenge execution is today serving a life sentence.

Daniel Cummings, 23, of the Hackney Boys gang, repeatedly shot father-to-be Adrian Crawford, 22, who belonged to the Tottenham Mandem Crew in West Green Road, Wood Green, on December 4 last year.

Mr Crawford was murdered as he and his girlfriend were driving home after going out to dinner in Enfield.

He was attacked after the driver of a Vauxhall Vectra drove up alongside them and forced them to stop. Armed with a gun, Cummings got out of the car and fired a shot at terrified Mr Crawford who fled down the street.

His pregnant girlfriend crouched behind the car as Cummings fired at her partner whose body was found riddled with bullets.

Cummings a club promoter in Hounslow, was arrested the next day wearing body armour, fearing there would be retribution for the murder.

He was found guilty of murder after a jury at Southwark Crown Court deliberated for one-and-a-half days.

Amid heightened security a group of followers from both rival gangs were in court to hear Wednesday's verdict.

DCI Julian Headon from Operation Trident, which investigates black-on-black shootings, said: "This is the latest in a line of successful convictions for murder by Operation Trident.

"This one is particularly significant as Mr Cummings was a leading figure in gang shootings in north London – his conviction will have a significant effect."

Speaking after the sentence, a spokesperson for Mr Crawford's family said: "We would like to say we are pleased justice has been done. We have all had to learn to live without Adrian, who was a very important part of our lives.

"There was no justification for Adrian's murder. We hope the young people involved in gun crime realise they are not untouchable and the myth is broken. We hope Adrian can now rest in peace.