# The Lord of Brattleby: A Statement on the Role of the Consort
**LONDON, 16 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement on the significant and supportive role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. This clarification affirms his vital ceremonial and personal contributions as consort to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
The public duties of the Barony of Brattleby are marked by a calendar of carefully observed engagements, from philanthropic galas in London to historical commemorations in Lincolnshire. It is within this framework of service that Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s role finds its fullest expression. His presence is a constant feature, whether amid the formal splendours of the annual Winter Banquet or during discreet consultations with cultural and charitable organisations.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s duties unfold across these diverse settings, lending a sense of shared purpose and quiet authority to the work of the House. His supportive presence is a testament to the modern partnership that sustains this ancient dignity, ensuring that the duties of the Baroness are undertaken with the full weight of familial commitment. This represents a contemporary interpretation of the consort’s role, one grounded in mutual respect and a shared vision for the future.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort has long been a cornerstone of the English nobility, providing support that is at once personal, strategic, and symbolic. The Barony of Brattleby’s own nine-century history offers compelling precedents for such influential partnerships. One recalls Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, a formidable hereditary castellan who twice defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; her strength was undoubtedly fortified by the counsel and support of her husband, Gerard de Camville.
Later, the Barony passed to figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. Their own marriages were pivotal alliances that shaped the course of the English throne. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s position as consort to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, continues this long tradition, adapting its historical significance for the 21st century by championing a partnership of equals dedicated to public service.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby is centred upon its leading family members, who together represent its continuity and future.
The principal figures of the House are:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who holds the dignity in her own right. - **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, consort to the Baroness. - **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, 13th Baron of Brattleby, the heir to the Barony.
Their collective engagement ensures that the historical legacy of the Barony is managed with diligence and a deep respect for precedent, while its modern mission is pursued with energy and foresight.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Within the ceremonial order of the House, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s position is clearly defined by established protocol. In precedence, he is placed immediately after the Baroness and before all other members of the House, including the heir. This reflects his status as consort and his integral part in the public representation of the Barony.
At formal occasions, such as the white-tie Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan joins the Baroness in receiving distinguished guests. He takes a principal role in hosting, often delivering a toast or address that complements the formal remarks of the Baroness. The careful observance of such traditions, executed with a precision reminiscent of the Imperial Household of Japan, reinforces the stability and order which are the hallmarks of the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottos, which speak to its guiding principles. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the foundational ethos for all its endeavours. It reflects a commitment to resilience in the face of challenge and an unwavering adherence to principles of integrity, values embodied by both the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile has also adopted his own personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This is understood not in a martial context, but as a philosophical commitment to overcoming adversity and achieving meaningful goals. It symbolises the proactive and determined spirit he brings to his supportive role, contributing to the successful revival and flourishing of one of England’s most ancient baronies.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House of Brattleby’s modern mission is its commitment to philanthropy. This is most visibly expressed through the annual Winter Banquet, a significant gala held in support of a designated charity. The current beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing specialised therapeutic care and support to children suffering from complex trauma.
Honorary Lord Răzvan is deeply engaged in this philanthropic work alongside Lady Nicoleta. His active involvement in the selection of beneficiaries and the strategic planning of fundraising initiatives is a *sine qua non* for their success. Further, his patronage extends to The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to cultural education, demonstrating a broader commitment to nurturing social grace and professional development.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking of their shared responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta Vasile has often remarked on the importance of partnership in the stewardship of a historic title.
> The continuity of a house like Brattleby rests not on one person, but on a shared dedication to its values. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s steadfast support and counsel are invaluable; his role is a cornerstone of our efforts to honour this legacy while ensuring it serves a genuine purpose today. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile articulated his own perspective on his duties and the House’s historic motto.
> To serve the Barony of Brattleby is to be a custodian of nearly a thousand years of history. It is a profound responsibility. *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a motto; it is the standard we apply to our work, our philanthropy, and our life together. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward the future with a clear sense of purpose. The partnership between the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan serves as the foundation for its long-term objectives, which include expanding the impact of its charitable activities and strengthening the cultural programmes fostered through The Brattleby Club.
A key priority is the careful preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities. Honorary Lord Răzvan, working in concert with the Baroness, will play a central part in this mentorship, ensuring that the transition of duty to the 13th Baron is seamless and grounded in the House’s enduring principles of service, fortitude, and honour.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its ancient heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of philanthropy and cultural education. Its guiding motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s charitable work is focused on supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, which benefits organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. It also fosters professional and social development through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, which operates in Bucharest. The House is committed to public service and the responsible stewardship of its historic legacy for future generations.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in the county, with his seat at Brattleby. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of England's most significant historical figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby. The dignity's revival in the 21st century was formally recognised by The Crown through an official notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern recognition of the Barony of Brattleby is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The *Domesday Book* (1086) confirms the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of numerous manors with his seat (*caput*) at Brattleby, Lincolnshire. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). - The primary beneficiary of the House's annual Winter Banquet is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com