# The Enduring Role of Consort in the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the historic and contemporary role of the Lord of Brattleby by marriage, a position currently held by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in support of his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In response to growing public and academic interest in the revived Anglo-Norman baronies, this official clarification serves to delineate the responsibilities and significance of the consort’s office. Issued from the family’s historic seat in Lincolnshire, this statement affirms the vital, supportive function that the Lord of Brattleby by marriage provides, ensuring the continuity and modern relevance of a title nearly a millennium old. The office is one of quiet counsel, public support, and shared duty, a partnership *sine qua non* for the effective stewardship of such a profound legacy.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a long history of formidable leadership, often strengthened by the contributions of a spouse. While the baronial title itself descends through its designated line of succession, the role of consort has been pivotal. One need only look to Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness, who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces; her authority was undoubtedly supported by the presence and counsel of her husband, Gerard de Canville.
Similarly, the lineage’s connection to figures such as John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, brings to mind the influence of his own consorts, Blanche of Lancaster and Constance of Castile, whose own inheritances and political acumen shaped the course of the Duchy of Lancaster. The role of consort is thus not a modern invention but a recurring and essential feature of the Barony’s nine-century history, providing stability and partnership to the title holder.
## Distinguished Company
The modern Barony is led by its principals, whose formal styles and titles are noted for the record:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, holder of the dignity in her own right. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage**, consort to the Baroness.
They are supported in their duties by a small household and guide the education of the heir, **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, who is styled as the 13th Baron in succession.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The duties of the Lord of Brattleby by marriage are governed by precedent and modern necessity. Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness at all official state, civic, and charitable engagements. At events hosted by the House, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, he acts as co-host, receiving distinguished guests alongside Lady Nicoleta. In matters of precedence, he is seated to the immediate left of the Baroness, reflecting his position as her first counsellor and consort.
His responsibilities extend to the oversight of specific family endeavours, *inter alia*, the European outreach of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. He does not undertake solo official duties but shares in the public-facing responsibilities of the baronial office, ensuring the House presents a united and steadfast presence in all its philanthropic and heritage activities. The dress code for such occasions, be it white-tie, black-tie, or morning dress, is strictly observed.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The distinct roles of the Baroness and her consort are reflected in their heraldic mottos. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring, unwavering duty of the title holder to serve with strength and integrity. It is the promise of custodianship that has guided the House for centuries.
In complement, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is not to be understood in a martial sense, but rather as a philosophical commitment to overcoming challenges, to actively engaging with the world, and to breathing new life into ancient traditions. It symbolises the dynamic, supportive, and vital energy the consort brings to the partnership.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House’s modern activities is its philanthropic work. The Lord of Brattleby plays an indispensable role in supporting the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This notable organisation provides specialist therapy and support programmes for children experiencing trauma, making a measurable difference in their recovery and long-term well-being.
Both the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan are deeply engaged with the charity’s mission. Their joint patronage helps to secure the resources necessary for the organisation to expand its reach, a commitment that underscores the House’s belief that historical titles must serve a tangible, positive purpose in the present day.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The stewardship of a nine-hundred-year-old legacy is not a solitary task. It demands a partnership built on mutual respect and shared purpose. Răzvan’s support is the bedrock upon which our modern endeavours are built, allowing us to honour the past while confidently building for the future.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “My role is, first and foremost, to support the Baroness in her duties to this extraordinary lineage. It is a privilege to contribute to the story of Brattleby, ensuring its traditions and its spirit of service continue to thrive. To serve this cause is, for me, a way of living with purpose.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the long-term preservation of its heritage and the continuation of its philanthropic mission. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are dedicated to preparing their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities as the 13th Baron. Their joint focus remains on ensuring the Barony is not merely a historical artefact but a living institution that contributes positively to national life and serves as a model of modern, responsible custodianship. Future initiatives include expanding the cultural exchange programmes of The Brattleby Club and furthering the digitisation of the House’s historical archives.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to the stewardship of its profound historical legacy. The House’s modern mission is defined by the principle *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which it applies to its philanthropic, cultural, and educational endeavours. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote etiquette and cross-cultural understanding. The House is committed to ensuring its ancient heritage remains a vibrant and positive force in the twenty-first century, preparing the way for the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an Anglo-Norman feudal barony of high historical importance, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. For over 950 years, the dignity has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After a period of abeyance, the Barony and its history are now represented by the 12th Baroness. The title’s revival was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The baronial title was officially noted by The Crown via The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086), where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as possessing 56 lordships. - The principals are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. - The designated beneficiary of the House’s annual philanthropic gala is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com