The Sign
The metal sign stands at the side of the road on the green at Barking. The religious figure could represent the Bishop of Ely, once owner of Barking Manor. The Lebanon cedar tree represents the cedar trees in the churchyard planted by Rev. Robert Uvedale, Rector from 1699-1723. The other tree could represent Bonny Woods found to the east of the parish, part of the larger Barking Woods a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The plough symbolises the importance of agriculture in the parish. The coat of arms on the post could be the Arms displayed by Geoffrey de Burgo, Bishop of Ely, at the signing of Magna Carta. The sign was designed by Mrs. Herring.

The Name and Population
The population was 446 at the 2011 census. The village was called Berchingas / -ingis / Berkinges in the Domesday Book. The name means "Berica's people" from Old English.

Other Points of Interest
The church is dedicated to St Mary.