THE family of a convicted drug dealer murdered at a North-East beauty spot in a gangland-style execution have spoken of their grief.

David "Noddy" Rice, 42, of South Shields, South Tyneside, was shot up to six times in the head by masked men as he sat in his car near Marsden Grotto at 4pm on May 24.

His assassins fled in a Ford Mondeo and later switched to an orange van which headed in the direction of Sunderland.

Police have arrested four people, including a 25-year-old woman from South Shields, in connection with his death. They have all been released on bail.

On Wednesday, police set up a road block and questioned drivers who may have been in the area at the time and had vital information.

Last night, the murdered father-of-seven's family issued an emotional statement.

It read: "It goes without saying that we, Noddy's family, as well as his numerous friends and associates, are devastated, not only by David's death, but also the tragic manner in which it occurred.

"Regardless of the circumstances surrounding his death, Nod didn't deserve to die in such a brutal and violent manner."

Mr Rice was engaged and had seven children aged from two to 25.

The statement added: "Not only was Nod a devoted and loving father to his seven children, he was also in regular contact with the rest of his family who he dearly loved and was loved by in return.

"Until recently, in fact, Nod was the father of five children, all boys, so when his fiancee gave birth to twins, one of whom was a girl, it appeared his life was almost complete.

"That's why he'd have found the trauma that has been caused to his family and friends, and which in some cases has affected their health in a negative way, hard to bear.

"Also, we are alarmed as the general public that such a violent event should occur in our home town."