Coventry cycle manufacturer Singer first ventured into the world of powered transport in 1901, making tricycles and motorcycles.

Tri-cars soon followed, with motor car production proper commencing in 1905 using proprietary engines.

The first Singer-powered model - the 10hp - debuted at The Cycle & Motor Cycle Show in November 1912.

Because it weighed less than 7cwt and was under 1,100cc in capacity (actually 1,096cc) the 10hp Singer was classed as a cyclecar, which explains the choice of venue.

But unlike the majority of contemporary cyclecars, which were flimsy affairs of limited practicality, the new baby Singer was a proper light car and thus a development of immense significance.

Priced at £185 at launch and produced for more than a decade, the Ten was an immense commercial success for Singer and is regarded as a landmark model in the history of the British motor industry.

With its foundations as a major motor manufacturer established, Singer went from strength to strength an...