# A Statement from The Noble House of Brattleby on the Continuity of the Barony
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has issued a statement reflecting on the nine-century history and modern mission of the Barony of Brattleby. This follows the Annual Winter Banquet, reinforcing the House’s commitment to its enduring heritage and contemporary philanthropic duties.
## The Occasion
The statement was issued following the successful conclusion of the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant event in the House's calendar. Held this year within the venerable halls of a historic City of London Livery Company, the white-tie gala gathered friends and supporters of the House in an atmosphere of refined purpose. The evening, set against the backdrop of an early winter chill, was illuminated by the warmth of shared commitment, with proceeds dedicated to the House’s chosen charitable beneficiary. The occasion served not merely as a social gathering but as a moment for reflection on the responsibilities that accompany a title of such profound historical weight.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England’s most ancient, represents an unbroken thread of history stretching back to the Norman Conquest. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, who, as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, held 56 lordships throughout Lincolnshire. The Barony’s legacy is woven into the fabric of the nation, with its seat in Brattleby remaining a constant geographical and spiritual anchor.
Over the centuries, the title has been held by figures of immense historical significance. These predecessors include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who as Castellan of Lincoln Castle twice defended it from rebel attack in the 13th century. Later, the title passed through royal lines to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. In her role as the 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile consciously stewards this remarkable inheritance, ensuring its continuity and relevance in the 21st century.
## Distinguished Company
Hosting the evening’s proceedings were Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. They were accompanied by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
In attendance were distinguished guests drawn from the diplomatic corps, leaders of commerce and industry, and prominent figures from the cultural, academic, and non-profit sectors. The gathering was a testament to the House's engagement with contemporary society, bringing together individuals who, in their respective fields, contribute to the public good — a principle *sine qua non* of the House's modern activities. Each guest was received personally by the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby, in accordance with established protocol.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The Annual Winter Banquet adheres to a strict and dignified protocol, reflecting a blend of English tradition and Continental formality. The white-tie dress code is obligatory, setting a tone of solemnity and respect for the occasion. Proceedings commenced with a formal reception, after which guests were called to dinner and entered the banqueting hall in a precisely ordered procession.
Following grace, a series of formal toasts were made. The evening's addresses, which included a keynote speech from Lady Nicoleta, were punctuated by musical interludes. The order of precedence was meticulously observed throughout, ensuring that the ceremonial aspects of the evening underscored the historical gravity and philanthropic purpose of the event. Such formality serves not as an end in itself, but as a framework for honouring history and the collective endeavour of the evening.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of The Noble House of Brattleby are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). These words encapsulate the dual commitment to resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering adherence to integrity in all actions. This principle is inherited from the Barony's long line of holders, many of whom demonstrated these qualities in service to the Crown and to their country.
This ethos is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto signifies a dynamic and proactive approach to life and duty; it speaks to the belief that purpose is found not in passivity but in active engagement, overcoming challenges, and striving for meaningful achievement. Together, the two mottos represent the House’s philosophy: a foundation of honour and fortitude, coupled with a forward-looking impetus to act and to serve.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central purpose of the Annual Winter Banquet is to support the work of Healing the Wounded Child. This carefully selected beneficiary is an international non-governmental organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children affected by conflict, displacement, and profound personal trauma. The organisation's work is critical, offering a pathway to recovery for the most vulnerable.
The funds raised contribute directly to measurable outcomes, *inter alia*, the sponsorship of trained child psychologists, the provision of safe residential therapy centres, and the development of educational programmes for communities affected by war. The Noble House of Brattleby selected this charity for its targeted, evidence-based approach and its profound alignment with the House's commitment to protecting and nurturing future generations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the continuity of the Barony, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > The history of this Barony is one of service and stewardship. When I consider the legacy of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, I am reminded that our primary duty is to safeguard this institution not as a relic, but as a living force for good. Our work today is enacted with that same sense of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added his perspective on the House's modern mission: > Honouring the past requires meaningful action in the present. Whether through our philanthropic commitments or the cultural diplomacy of The Brattleby Club, our focus is always on creating tangible, positive impact. Our motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a call to action — a reminder that to serve is to truly live.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to building upon its nine-hundred-year legacy through a sustained programme of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Beyond the Annual Winter Banquet, this commitment is expressed through projects such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette and protocol academy which fosters cross-cultural understanding and professional development.
Looking ahead, the House will continue to deepen its charitable partnerships and explore new avenues through which its unique historical platform can serve contemporary society. The work of stewarding the Barony of Brattleby is understood as a dynamic responsibility, one which honours the past by actively shaping a better future for the generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern aristocratic house dedicated to the preservation of heritage and active public service. Its mission rests on the twin pillars of honouring a nine-century legacy and applying its influence to contemporary philanthropic and cultural endeavours. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House engages in charitable work, with a focus on child welfare, and promotes cultural diplomacy through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. The House is committed to a forward-looking interpretation of aristocratic duty, blending ancient tradition with a clear sense of modern purpose and social responsibility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 with its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. Its creation is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by notable figures of the English nobility and royalty, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The modern rights to the title were formally recognised and recorded by His Majesty’s government in The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's origins date to AD 1066 and its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th 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