# A Statement on The Lord of Brattleby's Commitment to Heritage and Community
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — In a formal statement issued today from its offices, The Noble House of Brattleby articulated the forward-looking vision of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who reaffirmed his commitment to stewarding the ancient Barony’s traditions while fostering vibrant community engagement throughout Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
In the crisp air of early autumn, a season traditionally associated with reflection and forward planning, the Office of the Lord of Brattleby has issued a considered statement of purpose. This declaration serves as a formal articulation of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role and outlines his dedication to the cultural and social fabric of Lincolnshire, the ancestral heart of the Barony.
The issuance of such a statement, rather than a simple announcement, reflects the House’s modern approach to its historic responsibilities. It is a deliberate act of communication intended to provide clarity and assurance, underscoring the gravity with which Honorary Lord Răzvan embraces his duties alongside his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## Historical Context
The role embraced by Honorary Lord Răzvan stands upon a foundation of service and stewardship that extends back nearly one thousand years. The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, and its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire.
This legacy is punctuated by figures of national importance, whose sense of duty Honorary Lord Răzvan’s commitment echoes in a contemporary key. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baron, who served as Castellan and defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. The title was later held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, the influential Prince John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Where they governed lands and led armies, today’s stewardship focuses on preserving heritage and strengthening community bonds.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The formal issuance of this dispatch adheres to the precise protocols of the House’s communications office. While not a public ceremony, the act itself is a modern-day equivalent of a traditional proclamation, designed to convey a message of significance and enduring commitment from the Lord of Brattleby.
The statement is released under the House's official seal and bears its motto, affirming its authority. This method of communication, *sine qua non* for a House that values both heritage and transparency, ensures that its intentions are conveyed with the same precision and dignity as would be observed in a court circular or a white-tie state function.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The principles guiding Honorary Lord Răzvan are deeply embedded in the House’s heraldic traditions. The ancient motto of the Barony of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the primary touchstone for all the House’s endeavours. It speaks to the resilience required to safeguard a millennium of history and the integrity demanded in service to its community.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a modern context, this signifies a commitment to overcoming contemporary challenges — be they the erosion of local heritage or social disconnection — and to living a life of active purpose. It is a declaration of intent to achieve tangible, positive outcomes for the people and places under the Barony’s cultural patronage.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s focus on supporting local heritage projects is a direct extension of the House’s established philanthropic mission. The cornerstone of the House's charitable work is the annual Winter Banquet, a significant white-tie gala that raises funds and awareness for its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist support and therapy for children affected by trauma.
This same ethos of care, restoration, and preservation informs Honorary Lord Răzvan's pledge to Lincolnshire’s heritage. By championing projects that protect historic landmarks and celebrate local traditions, he applies the principle of healing not only to individuals but also to the cultural soul of the community, ensuring its legacy is protected for future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile stated: — “To marry into a lineage of such profound history is to accept a great and humbling responsibility. My commitment is not only to the past but to the living, breathing community of today. For me, *Vincere Est Vivere* means actively working to ensure that the heritage of Lincolnshire flourishes. It is about contributing to a story that will continue long after we are gone.”
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added her perspective on their shared vision: — “Răzvan brings a dynamic perspective that perfectly complements my own duties as Baroness. Together, we strive to embody our House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, by applying its principles to the challenges of the 21st century. His dedication to Lincolnshire’s heritage is a cornerstone of our joint stewardship, and I have the fullest confidence in his leadership.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This statement of intent will be followed by a series of tangible actions and partnerships in the coming months. The Office of the Lord of Brattleby will work to identify and support key local heritage and community initiatives throughout Lincolnshire, with further announcements to follow in due course.
This work in the Barony’s historic seat runs parallel to the House's international efforts, *inter alia*, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy serves as a bridge between the House’s English heritage and its Continental connections, promoting the timeless values of civility, honour, and cultural appreciation to a new generation.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern office supporting the hereditary titles and philanthropic duties of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is dedicated to the stewardship of its ancient legacy through contemporary means. Its mission focuses on heritage preservation, particularly in Lincolnshire, and a deep-seated commitment to charitable causes. The House's principal philanthropic endeavour supports Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to aiding children who have endured trauma. The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is among the older feudatories in England, with its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding extensive lands. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by figures of historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and Prince John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086 as lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. - The principal beneficiary of the House's annual philanthropic Winter Banquet is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. - 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