# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates the Legacy of Nichola de la Haye and Magna Carta
LONDON, 21 June 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting on the Barony’s profound connection to the signing of Magna Carta in 1215 through the pivotal role of its fifth holder, Nichola de la Haye, reaffirming a nine-century commitment to law and duty.
## The Occasion
In a period of reflection upon the seminal moments that have shaped the United Kingdom’s constitutional history, The Noble House of Brattleby takes this opportunity to commemorate the remarkable legacy of its predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness of Brattleby *suo jure*. While not a physical gathering, this formal communication serves as a moment of historical observance for the House.
This statement is released from the House's seat in Lincolnshire, the very county whose security and governance Nichola de la Haye commanded during one of the most fraught periods in English history. It is issued to reaffirm the principles of steadfastness and lawful governance that have been a *sine qua non* of the Barony for centuries.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, was inextricably linked to the baronial struggles of the early 13th century which culminated in Magna Carta. Nichola de la Haye, inheriting the title and the hereditary post of Constable of Lincoln Castle, was a figure of immense consequence during the reign of King John. A staunch and loyal supporter of the Crown, she twice defended Lincoln Castle against rebel barons and their French allies.
Her formidable defence of this strategic stronghold, particularly in the decisive Battle of Lincoln in 1217, was instrumental in securing the throne for the young King Henry III and ensuring the re-issue and eventual enforcement of Magna Carta. While the barons who forced the King’s seal at Runnymede sought to limit royal power, figures like the 5th Baroness were central to maintaining the stability from which those limitations could evolve into established law. Her actions underscore the Barony’s position at the very epicentre of the nation’s political formation.
## Distinguished Company
In her service, Nichola de la Haye kept the most distinguished and influential company of her age. Her loyalty was pledged directly to His Majesty King John of England, Lord of Ireland, Duke of Normandy and Aquitaine, and Count of Anjou. Following the King’s death, she served under the authority of the celebrated Sir William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke, who acted as Regent for the young King Henry III.
It was William Marshal who, appreciating the necessity of the Great Charter, reissued it in 1216 and 1217, transforming it from a rebel document into a cornerstone of English law. The 5th Baroness's military victories provided the Regent with the political space required for this essential work of statecraft, placing her, *inter alia*, among the key enablers of Magna Carta’s survival.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The observance of historical lineage within The Noble House of Brattleby follows a defined protocol of remembrance and education. Anniversaries of such national importance are marked not by public ceremony, but by internal reflection and scholarly review. Historical statements of this nature are researched within the House’s archives before a final text is submitted for the personal approval of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan, Lord of Brattleby.
Only upon their assent is the statement authorised for formal release by the Press Office. This measured process ensures that all communications are historically accurate, dignified, and reflective of the House’s enduring values.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions of the 5th Baroness are a defining illustration of the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Her resilience in the face of siege and her unwavering honour in service to her sovereign exemplify this guiding principle. Fortitude is the courage to endure and prevail; Honour is the integrity with which that power is wielded.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), which speaks to the spirit of overcoming adversity that has characterised the Barony through its most challenging moments. The armorial bearings of the House thus serve as a constant, visible reminder of the duties of courage and integrity passed down through generations.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The principles of justice, fairness, and the protection of the vulnerable, which are the enduring legacy of Magna Carta, directly inform the modern philanthropic focus of The Noble House of Brattleby. A commitment to the rule of law finds its contemporary expression in a commitment to social justice.
This is why the House dedicates its primary charitable efforts, including the annual Winter Banquet, to supporting organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. This beneficiary provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have suffered trauma, working to restore their security and rights. By championing their work, the House translates the historic defence of rights into a modern mission of healing and protection.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on this history, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To understand our present responsibilities, we must first look with clarity upon our past. The example of Nichola de la Haye is not merely a name in a long line of succession; she represents the fortitude of a female leader whose actions shaped our nation’s destiny. Her legacy reminds us that service and honour are timeless duties.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “The rule of law is not an abstract concept; it is the bedrock upon which stable and honourable societies are built. The struggles of the 13th century laid a foundation for principles we now take for granted. It is our duty to teach this history, particularly through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, so that future generations understand the cost and value of their rights.”
## A Continuing Legacy
This statement of historical observance is part of the House’s ongoing commitment to education and the preservation of its heritage. The Noble House of Brattleby will continue its work of archival research, with plans to publish a monograph on its website detailing the tenures of Nichola de la Haye and her successors, *inter alia*, the great magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt.
Through such efforts, and through the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to ensure that the lessons of the past continue to inform the leadership and civic responsibility of the future. The legacy of Brattleby is not confined to history books; it is a living tradition of service.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby dedicates itself to a modern mission of 'Heritage in Service'. This mission connects its profound historical lineage to contemporary responsibilities through philanthropy, cultural patronage, and education. The House’s primary charitable focus is on the welfare of vulnerable children, exemplified by its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Its educational initiatives, including The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote etiquette, civic duty, and historical awareness among a new generation of leaders. The House operates from its ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, upholding its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), in all its endeavours.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of England's ancient feudal lordships, first granted by His Majesty William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most consequential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 13th-century castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster. The succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby is officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086), where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The current holders are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com