It’s a sporting achievement which could even impress former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

On Sunday, William Ellis School alumnus Rory Campbell – son of erstwhile government spin doctor and Gospel Oak resident Alastair Campbell – comfortably won the Hampton Court Half Marathon, his first race beyond a distance of 1,000m.

The 26-year-old crossed the finish line with a time of one hour, 13 minutes – just 15 minutes short of the world record over 13.1 miles.

Mr Campbell’s efforts have raised more than £10,000 for a cancer research charity in memory of late Labour Party strategist Philip Gould, which included a £500 donation from Sir Alex and his wife, Lady Cathy Ferguson.

The high-profile connections of Mr Campbell’s father also brought in donations from former prime minister Tony Blair and broadcaster Piers Morgan.

Mr Campbell’s success had not gone to his head as he spoke to the Ham&High following his triumph.

“It was good. I wasn’t over the moon,” he said. “I ran 11-and-a-half miles on my own. I was pretty shattered from mile 10 onwards.

“I would rather have had people with me, so I would like to think there is more to come. I think I’m going to try to do the Great North Run in September and then try the London Marathon next year.”

All the money raised will go to a fund set up in tribute to Mr Gould, who died from oesophageal cancer in 2011, aged 61.

Mr Campbell was cheered on during Sunday’s race by his sister Grace, grandmother Audrey Millar and journalist mother Fiona Millar, as well as Mr Gould’s daughters Grace and Georgia, the latter a Kentish Town councillor.

He said his father, who was away in the United Arab Emirates, was “gutted he couldn’t be there”.