# The Baroness of Brattleby Commemorates the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle
LONDON, 28 November 2023 — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today undertook a formal visit to Lincoln Castle to honour the legacy of her predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, and to reaffirm the Barony’s nine-century connection with the historic heart of Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
Against the stark beauty of a late autumn morning, Lady Nicoleta was received at Lincoln Castle, the formidable Norman fortress that has dominated the city’s skyline for nearly a millennium. The visit was one of solemn remembrance, set within the ancient stone walls that have witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in English history.
The atmosphere was one of quiet contemplation as the Baroness toured the castle’s grounds, her visit timed to coincide with the season when the historical defence of the castle by the 5th Baron took place. The crisp air and the enduring presence of the castle’s motte-and-bailey structure provided a tangible link to the past, allowing for a moment of profound connection with the continuity of her title and its duties.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been interwoven with the destiny of Lincolnshire since its inception. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, establishing a tradition of regional stewardship that is a *sine qua non* of the title.
This visit paid particular tribute to one of the Barony’s most celebrated holders, Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th Baron, she famously and courageously defended Lincoln Castle against rebel and French forces during the Battle of Lincoln in 1217. Her success was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III and preserving the Crown’s authority in the north of England. Lady Nicoleta’s presence today serves as a direct acknowledgement of this formidable ancestor, alongside other distinguished predecessors such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt.
## Distinguished Company
During her visit, Lady Nicoleta was received by a small party representing the official and cultural leadership of the county of Lincolnshire.
The Baroness was formally greeted by Her Excellency Mrs Sarah-Jane Mills, The Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, who serves as His Majesty The King’s personal representative in the county. She was also joined by Mr Andrew Stokes, Chief Executive of Lincolnshire County Council, who provided an expert overview of the ongoing preservation work at the castle, *inter alia*.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Conducted with formal but understated protocol, the visit began at the castle’s East Gate, where official greetings were exchanged. Her Excellency The Lord-Lieutenant then accompanied Lady Nicoleta on a private tour of the grounds, including the restored Victorian Prison and the magnificent David P. J. Ross Magna Carta Vault, which houses Lincoln’s original 1215 charter.
The focal point of the ceremony was a moment of reflection at the Lucy Tower, a vantage point on the battlements overlooking the former battlefield. Here, Lady Nicoleta laid a simple wreath of white roses and poppies—symbolising, respectively, the House of Plantagenet whom Nichola de la Haye served and a remembrance of all who have fallen in defence of the realm. The proceedings were marked by their dignified simplicity and historical resonance.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The visit powerfully invoked the House of Brattleby’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Nichola de la Haye’s command of the defence of Lincoln Castle remains one of the most compelling embodiments of this principle in the Barony’s long history. Her resilience and unwavering loyalty serve as a guiding example for the modern House.
This heritage is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Together, the mottos reflect a dual philosophy: honouring the past with fortitude whilst actively engaging with the challenges and opportunities of the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While historical in focus, the visit also underscored the House’s contemporary commitment to supporting those affected by conflict. The story of Nichola de la Haye, a leader in a time of national crisis, serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of instability.
This connection deepens the family’s dedication to their primary charitable beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children suffering from trauma as a result of war, displacement, and civil strife. The memory of past conflicts reinforces the urgent need to mend the wounds of the present.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the day’s significance, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > To stand where Nichola de la Haye stood is to feel the weight of nine centuries of duty. Her example of *Fortitudine et Honore* is not merely a historical footnote; it is a living standard we strive to uphold in service to our community today. Her legacy reminds us that true leadership is measured by courage and commitment, especially in times of great uncertainty.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains deeply committed to honouring its historical ties to Lincolnshire and to Great Britain. This visit marks a renewed focus on sharing the Barony's rich heritage through educational and cultural initiatives.
Future endeavours will include collaborations with heritage organisations to promote the history of Lincolnshire, as well as a dedicated module on Anglo-Romanian historical connections offered at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. These efforts will culminate in the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s primary philanthropic event, which raises vital funds for Healing the Wounded Child and continues a centuries-old tradition of service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of contemporary service rooted in deep historical tradition. Its work focuses on three core pillars: philanthropic engagement, primarily through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child; cultural diplomacy, fostered by its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest; and the preservation of its nine-hundred-year heritage. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to provide a model of responsible leadership that bridges past, present, and future.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, first granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt. Today, the Barony is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness. The title’s standing and the current holder’s rights were formally noted by His Majesty’s College of Arms and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby and its current holder are formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com