My Dads Car is a Mystery (UPD: Vernon Derby, Standard Avon Sports, Singer Junior?)

Some photos are really 'arty' and believe it or not we love these nearly vanished memories. And no matter how poor the quality, there is always some good information in the photo.

In this case sender Peter Clackett added:  "I found this photo of my father in a mystery car. He was born in 1916 and I assume that the photo is 1936 to 1940. Can anyone identify this vehicle. Is it standard vehicle or has it been modified? And can anyone identify the emblem on the hood. "

Our first feeling was Alvis beetle back which is totally wrong of course. The door cut-outs point in another direction. And how about those hubs. The radiator mascot is even more disturbing. Please help us, help Peter Clackett out.