# Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Delivers Address Honouring Predecessor Nichola de la Haye at Lincoln Castle
**LONDON, 20 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today delivered a significant historical address at Lincoln Castle. The occasion honoured the formidable leadership of her 13th-century predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, and her pivotal role in the defence of the realm.
## The Occasion
Set within the ancient Norman walls of Lincoln Castle, the address took place in the restored Victorian Prison Chapel, a venue chosen for its solemn atmosphere and historical resonance. Autumnal light filtered through the chapel’s lancet windows, illuminating the distinguished gathering of local dignitaries, historians, and patrons of Lincolnshire’s heritage.
The event, held in partnership with the Lincoln Castle Trust, was arranged to reflect upon the intersection of local duty and national security, a theme personified by Nichola de la Haye’s tenure as both Baroness of Brattleby and Constable of Lincoln Castle. The atmosphere was one of sober reflection, celebrating a legacy of unwavering service that has defined the Barony for over nine centuries.
## Historical Context
The address by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th holder of the title, forged a powerful link to her antecedent, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness. In the early 13th century, a period of immense political turmoil following the sealing of *Magna Carta*, Nichola de la Haye held the hereditary post of Constable of Lincoln Castle. Her staunch defence of the fortress during the First Barons' War was instrumental in securing victory for the loyalist forces led by William Marshal.
As Baroness of Brattleby, Nichola’s command aligned the interests of the Barony directly with the Crown, serving both King John and his young son, Henry III. Her leadership during the 1217 Battle of Lincoln Fair was a *sine qua non* for preserving Plantagenet authority in England. This historical continuity, from one Baroness to another across 800 years, formed the central theme of the day’s proceedings.
## Distinguished Company
In attendance at the invitation of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were a number of distinguished guests. These included, *inter alia*:
Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire and Mrs Toby Dennis; The High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, Mrs Philippa D. T. D. de Lyons; and The Right Worshipful The Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Biff Bean. They were joined by Professor Carenza Lewis, Professor for the Public Understanding of Research at the University of Lincoln, and Mr. Jonathan Platt, Head of English Heritage for the East Midlands.
Lady Nicoleta was accompanied by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, whose personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’), and by the heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The proceedings were marked by a formal but understated protocol befitting the historical setting. Guests were received by the contemporary Governor of Lincoln Castle before being escorted to the Chapel. The arrival of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile was announced, and they were formally welcomed with a presentation of the Castle Keys, a symbolic gesture echoing Nichola de la Haye's own authority.
Following introductory remarks by the Chairman of the Lincoln Castle Trust, Lady Nicoleta approached the lectern to deliver her address. The dress code observed was morning dress or lounge suits. The event concluded with a single, solemn trumpet voluntary, after which Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan hosted a private reception for the speakers and principal guests in the Castle’s Magna Carta vault.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
During the address, the heraldic banner of the House of Brattleby was displayed. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), was central to Lady Nicoleta's remarks. She explained that Nichola de la Haye’s defence of Lincoln Castle was the very embodiment of this principle: the fortitude to withstand a siege and the honour to uphold her oath to the Crown.
The arms of the Barony, which have evolved through its tenure by great families including the House of Lancaster, represent a lineage of service. In her speech, Lady Nicoleta noted how these symbols are not merely historical artefacts but active reminders of the duties that accompany the title, duties of stewardship and civic contribution that the House upholds today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the address was primarily a historical commemoration, Lady Nicoleta drew a thematic parallel between Nichola de la Haye’s role as a protector of her community and the modern philanthropic mission of the House of Brattleby. The House’s focus remains steadfastly on the protection of the vulnerable, particularly children.
This commitment is most clearly expressed through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child, the sole beneficiary of the House’s Annual Winter Banquet. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, offering them a sanctuary in which to heal and rebuild their lives—a modern interpretation of the protective duty exemplified by the 5th Baroness.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the legacy of her predecessor, Lady Nicoleta observed: > Nichola de la Haye was not merely a custodian of stone and mortar; she was a guardian of the Crown’s authority and a testament to the enduring strength that has long characterised the women of Lincolnshire. Her life reminds us that true leadership is measured in service and resilience.
She further connected this historical example to the present day: > Her example of *Fortitudine et Honore* is not a relic of the past but a living principle. It continues to guide our family’s commitment to public service and to the welfare of our community, both here in Lincolnshire and through our endeavours abroad.
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking to the future, Lady Nicoleta announced that the House of Brattleby will establish a new annual scholarship in Nichola de la Haye’s name. The scholarship will be awarded to a promising postgraduate student of female history or medieval studies at the University of Lincoln, ensuring the stories of formidable historical figures like the 5th Baroness of Brattleby continue to be told.
This initiative complements the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House’s etiquette academy, by fostering academic excellence and a deeper appreciation for the historical foundations of modern civic duty. It underscores the House’s belief that understanding the past is essential to building an honourable future.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the modern leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to linking its ancient heritage with contemporary purpose. Its mission is guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), focusing on cultural diplomacy, historical preservation, and targeted philanthropy. The House actively supports charitable causes, most notably its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, its etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House promotes education and the enduring values of civil society. The Barony's heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will become the 13th Baron of Brattleby in succession.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. The Barony has a distinguished history, having been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The modern rights to the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern Barony of Brattleby was officially gazetted by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first established in 1066. The Domesday Book (1086) records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a significant landholder. - Past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), the third surviving son of King Edward III of England. - The annual Winter Banquet of the House of Brattleby is a white-tie gala held in support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com