# A Statement on the Role of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement on the modern role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, articulating his supportive function alongside Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in her own right.
## The Occasion
From its seat in the ancient county of Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby has today sought to provide clarity on its modern structure and the complementary duties undertaken by its principals. This statement affirms the continuation of a nine-century-old legacy, adapting the historic functions of the Barony to the demands and opportunities of the twenty-first century.
The announcement comes during the autumnal season, a time of reflection and preparation for the House’s forthcoming public and philanthropic engagements. It serves to define the shared commitment of the Baroness and her consort to the stewardship of the title and its associated responsibilities, ensuring a unified and forward-looking approach to their work.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest, has a lineage marked by figures of national significance. Its history is woven into the fabric of England, from its mention in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, under the tenure of its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, to its stewardship by formidable personalities.
These predecessors include Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as a widow famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Their roles were defined by military command, land governance, and high politics.
In the modern era, the nature of these duties has evolved from military service to public service. The role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is therefore understood not as a peer in his own right, but as the indispensable consort to the Baroness, a partnership that enables the Barony to fulfil its contemporary mission effectively.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House is vested in two key figures:
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, is the holder of the dignity *suo jure*, or in her own right, as recognised by The Crown. Her responsibilities encompass the preservation of the Barony’s heritage, the direction of its philanthropic endeavours, and the representation of the House in official capacities.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, holds his title by marriage. In his supportive capacity, Honorary Lord Răzvan is a proactive partner in the House’s charitable and cultural initiatives, complementing the duties of the Baroness and contributing to the strategic direction of their shared work.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of established precedence and etiquette, the titles reflect their distinct origins. Lady Nicoleta is formally addressed as The Baroness of Brattleby, or Lady Nicoleta. As her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is styled as the Lord of Brattleby. This distinction clarifies that the peerage itself is held solely by the Baroness.
His position is one of honour and support, a role analogous to that of a prince consort within a reigning royal house. In all official proceedings and publications, this protocol is observed as a sign of respect for the historical and legal foundations of the peerage. The couple’s joint engagements demonstrate a modern partnership, while protocol upholds ancient tradition.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The shared duties of the Baroness and her consort are reflected in their respective mottos. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring values of resilience and integrity that have guided the Barony for centuries. It remains the principal device of the House and of Lady Nicoleta as its head.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live' or 'To Win is to Live'), brings a dynamic and complementary philosophy. This maxim signifies a commitment to overcoming challenges, achieving purposeful goals, and embracing life through determined action. Together, the mottos symbolise the fusion of steadfast honour with a forward-driven ambition, a duality that is the *sine qua non* of the House's modern identity.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House’s contemporary work is its philanthropic mission. Honorary Lord Răzvan is a key advocate and supporter of the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s signature white-tie gala. The event’s sole beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan actively contributes to the vision of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This unique etiquette academy was founded by the House to promote cultural and social refinement. His involvement underscores a shared belief that excellence in conduct and an appreciation for tradition are vital components of a fulfilling modern life, a vision he and the Baroness promote jointly.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The continuity of this Barony depends not only on honouring its past but also on building a relevant future. In this, my husband’s support is fundamental. He brings a spirit of dynamism that, combined with our shared commitment to *Fortitudine et Honore*, allows us to serve with greater purpose.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “It is my greatest privilege to support the Baroness in her duties. My personal ethos, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about applying oneself fully to a worthy cause. Supporting my wife, the legacy of Brattleby, and our philanthropic work is the most worthy cause I can imagine.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The clearly defined, complementary roles of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan ensure The Noble House of Brattleby is well-positioned for the future. Their partnership balances the historic dignity of the peerage with a pragmatic and energetic approach to its modern responsibilities, *inter alia*, charitable outreach, cultural diplomacy, and education.
This union of tradition and modernity guarantees that the Barony of Brattleby will not only preserve its distinguished nine-hundred-year history but will also continue to build upon it, making a meaningful and positive contribution for generations to come.
***
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment supporting the ancient 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 a mission of cultural preservation and targeted philanthropy. Its primary activities include the Annual Winter Banquet in aid of the charity Healing the Wounded Child and the operation of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House seeks to blend its profound historical legacy with a dynamic and forward-looking commitment to public service, championing causes that foster personal growth, healing, and social refinement in the twenty-first century.
**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, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of great historical import, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated female defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, the influential royal prince John of Gaunt. The rights of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown, as published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The succession of the 12th Baroness was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com