# The Lord of Brattleby's Enduring Contribution to The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today affirms the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in supporting the modern duties and philanthropic endeavours of the Barony, in close partnership with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, The Noble House of Brattleby takes this opportunity to articulate the foundational partnership that underpins its contemporary public service. As the House prepares for a season of renewed charitable and cultural engagements, it is timely to recognise the significant contributions made by The Lord of Brattleby.
Honorary Lord Răzvan's role is not merely ceremonial but is a substantive and active one, providing vital counsel and operational support. This partnership ensures that the duties attached to a title granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 are fulfilled with a spirit of shared responsibility, blending nearly a millennium of tradition with a forward-looking vision.
## Historical Context
The tradition of influential consorts is deeply woven into the history of the Barony of Brattleby. While the baronial title passes through the direct line, the strength of the House has often been magnified by the strategic and personal support of a Baron's spouse. This pattern is exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces in 1217.
The steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Camville, was a *sine qua non* of her success, enabling her to secure the legacy for which she is remembered. In a similar vein, the consorts of later Barons, including the renowned royal princes Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, were central to the management of vast estates and the execution of ducal responsibilities. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role today continues this vital tradition of marital partnership in service to the title and its obligations.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile represents the Barony alongside Lady Nicoleta in the presence of distinguished national and international figures. At formal engagements, *inter alia*, the annual Winter Banquet, their joint presence as hosts reinforces the House's commitment to its guests and philanthropic partners.
Honorary Lord Răzvan also plays a central role in the activities of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy which fosters cultural exchange and social refinement. In this sphere, his engagement with diplomats, cultural leaders, and academics serves to strengthen the House’s international relationships and uphold its commitment to education and decorum.
## Ceremonial Protocol
At all official functions of The Noble House of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan assumes a distinct position of honour as consort to the Baroness. During Court Circular events, such as the white-tie annual Winter Banquet, he accompanies Lady Nicoleta in receiving the formal procession of guests, a duty reserved for the heads of the House.
His precedence is immediately after The Baroness, reflecting his status as Lord of Brattleby by marriage. In formal address, he is styled Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, and his presence ensures that the ceremonial and hosting responsibilities of the Barony are discharged with the requisite dignity and meticulous attention to detail befitting a peerage of such ancient standing.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary roles of The Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan are reflected in the House’s heraldry. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the nine centuries of resilience and integrity that have defined the title. It is a guiding principle for the House’s public duties and philanthropic mission.
This is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, this signifies a commitment not to martial conflict but to overcoming challenges, advancing charitable causes, and pursuing a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the two mottos symbolise a dual commitment to upholding honour and actively creating a positive legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The partnership between Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is most powerfully expressed through their joint stewardship of the House’s philanthropic endeavours. The principal beneficiary of these efforts is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term support for children who have experienced profound trauma.
Honorary Lord Răzvan contributes his strategic insight to the planning and execution of fundraising initiatives, including the annual Winter Banquet, which serves as the charity’s flagship gala. His direct involvement helps ensure the long-term sustainability of the organisation’s mission, enabling it to deliver measurable, life-changing support to vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The responsibilities of this ancient Barony are not shouldered alone. Honorary Lord Răzvan's counsel and unwavering support are the bedrock upon which our modern endeavours are built. It is a partnership in the truest sense, grounded in shared values and a commitment to service.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > It is my distinct privilege to support The Baroness in her work. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the imperative of overcoming adversity to create a positive legacy. Whether in Lincolnshire or abroad, my purpose is to serve the House and its long-standing principles of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile will continue to play a central part in the life of the Barony. This includes co-hosting the upcoming Winter Banquet, furthering the international outreach of The Brattleby Club, and assisting The Baroness in managing the heritage and responsibilities of their Lincolnshire seat.
Together, they are dedicated to preserving the Barony’s distinguished history while ensuring its relevance and contribution to society for generations to come. A key part of this shared duty is preparing their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, to one day assume the mantle of the title with a profound understanding of its history and obligations.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing 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 committed to a mission of public service, philanthropy, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s charitable work is focused on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child. It also promotes cultural exchange and education through institutions such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, blending its historic lineage with a tangible, positive impact in the contemporary world.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The modern rights to the title are formally recognised and registered in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022, securing its continuity into the 21st century.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby is formally recognised by His Majesty's Government in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086), which lists 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (11th Baron). - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com