Our History
1945 – A New Beginning
After returning from war service in 1945, Harold Barker and William Geary founded Barker & Geary in Kings Somborne, Hampshire — the very same location we operate from today. From humble beginnings, they supplied locally coppiced products such as farm stakes, hazel wattle hurdles, firewood, bean rods, and pea sticks.
1960-1980 – Family Growth
As demand grew, Barker & Geary expanded into forestry, sawmilling, and fencing. In the 1970s, William Geary retired, and Harold’s three sons joined the company, each taking responsibility for a different division: transportation, forestry, and fencing & gates.
1980-2005 – Roy at the Helm
Following the retirement of his brothers, Roy Barker became Managing Director and sole owner. Under his leadership, the business focused on fencing and gates, cementing its reputation for quality and service. With the arrival of the third generation, new opportunities emerged. Around 25 years ago, Barker & Geary launched its automated gate and barrier division — bringing together designers, construction technicians, electricians, groundworkers, and bricklayers to provide a complete start-to-finish installation service.
2005-2023 – Innovation & Expansion
With the third generation stepping into leadership, technology was gradually introduced at every level of the business (up to this point, not even a PC had been used in the office). From design and drawings to groundworks, wall and pier construction, driveway surfacing, timber or metal gates, and electric gate automation with intercom systems — Barker & Geary became known as a true one-stop solution.
During this period, the company worked with clients such as Britax (Andover), Draper Tools, Coopervision (Hamble), The National Trust, Wilton House, as well as many commercial sites, schools, and private estates across central southern England.
In 2020, the business faced the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. By quickly adapting operations, supporting staff, and implementing safe working practices, Barker & Geary managed to keep projects moving and customers supplied. This resilience ensured the company not only survived but continued to serve the community during uncertain times.
Harold Barker lived to see the business flourish, passing away in 2011 at the age of 95, leaving behind a proud family legacy.
2023 – Present – The Next Generations
Today, the business is proudly led by John Barker and Donna Ovenden, the third generation of family leadership. The fourth generation is already actively involved, ensuring the company’s values of craftsmanship, service, and innovation continue to thrive.
Alongside its reputation for automated gates, Barker & Geary has become one of the leading fencing suppliers in the region, offering a wide range of domestic, agricultural, and commercial fencing. With a large sales yard and two additional stockyards, the company serves both retail customers and trade clients — including fencing contractors, landscapers, councils, and the National Trust.
Our continued success is built on personal service, expert advice, premium products, and long-lasting installations. With the third and fourth generations now guiding the company, the future of Barker & Geary looks brighter than ever. After more than 50 years of dedication, Roy Barker will retire this year.
