# Clarification of the Office and Responsibilities of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued an official statement from its Seat in Lincolnshire, clarifying the contemporary office and responsibilities of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, in support of The Baroness of Brattleby and the Barony's continuing legacy.
## The Occasion
From the historic heartland of the Barony in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a landscape defined by its enduring character for nearly a thousand years, The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen the autumn season to formalise and communicate the modern duties of the Lord of Brattleby. This statement serves to articulate a twenty-first-century role within the framework of one of England’s most ancient dignities, ensuring clarity, purpose, and continuity for the future.
The formalisation of this office is more than an administrative protocol; it is a considered act of stewardship, reflecting the House’s commitment to transparency and its structured approach to public life. In an era that rightly demands accountability, this declaration defines how ancestral tradition is actively harmonised with present-day responsibilities. It ensures that the Barony remains not only a custodian of history but also a relevant and constructive force within contemporary society.
This announcement provides a clear framework for the House’s engagement with its philanthropic partners, cultural initiatives, and official representatives, both in the United Kingdom and abroad. It affirms a structure of shared duty, essential for the effective management of the Barony’s extensive commitments.
## Historical Context
Since its establishment by grant of William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby has frequently seen its hereditary leadership sustained and strengthened by consorts whose contribution was a *sine qua non* for the success of their era. The supportive office of Honorary Lord Răzvan finds its deepest historical precedent in figures such as Gerard de Camville, the husband of the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right. His steadfast support during her heroic defence of Lincoln Castle for the Crown was integral to securing the royal cause in the First Barons' War.
This tradition of marital partnership was a defining feature of the Barony’s most illustrious periods. The influence of Isabel of Beaumont, wife of Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, was vital to the administration of their vast Lancastrian holdings. Similarly, Blanche of Lancaster, first wife of the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, was celebrated for her grace and leadership, qualities that reinforced the prestige and stability of the ducal household.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position thus perpetuates a nine-century tradition of collaborative service. It adapts a historic model, once rooted in military alliance and the governance of feudal estates, into a modern paradigm of shared purpose focused on charity, cultural preservation, and public duty.
## Distinguished Company
In the execution of his duties, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile operates in close concert with the head of The Noble House of Brattleby, his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Together, they guide the strategic direction of the House, represent its historic dignity at official functions, and oversee its philanthropic and cultural programmes. This unity of purpose is central to their shared vocation.
Their joint leadership is complemented by the formal role of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the designated 13th Baron, who is judiciously being prepared for his future responsibilities. This structure establishes a functioning triumvirate that ensures a seamless blend of established authority, dynamic execution, and long-term continuity. Such a model safeguards the Barony’s legacy for succeeding generations.
This collaborative arrangement among the Baroness, her husband, and the heir forms the very foundation of the House's modern operational ethos. It allows for a functional separation of duties while maintaining a unified public presence, embodying the principle of duty shared across generations.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As Lord of Brattleby by marriage, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile adheres to precise ceremonial protocol during all official engagements. At formal functions, most notably the annual Winter Banquet held in aid of charity, he supports the Baroness as host, fulfilling his duties in receiving dignitaries, patrons, and guests with a dignity befitting the House. He holds a position of honour and precedence immediately alongside the Baroness, symbolising their partnership.
The dress code for such occasions is strictly white-tie, requiring gentlemen to wear an evening tailcoat, white waistcoat, and white bow tie, with decorations worn in accordance with established regulation. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role in the receiving line is integral; he stands beside the Baroness to greet each guest personally, a fundamental courtesy that underscores the House’s respect for its company.
In correspondence and formal address, he is styled Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. Within the order of proceedings at House events, his role is clearly defined. He frequently delivers remarks on subjects pertaining to the family’s philanthropic endeavours or strategic initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club. This thoughtful division of duties allows the Baroness to concentrate on matters of historical and ceremonial significance, while Honorary Lord Răzvan directs the practical execution of their shared vision.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The unified mission of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is powerfully represented in the heraldic interplay between their respective mottos. The ancient motto of the House, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), is the bedrock of the Barony’s identity. It speaks to the imperishable values of resilience, integrity, and moral courage that have defined its lineage through nearly a millennium of English history.
This foundational ethic is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim does not signify military conquest but is instead to be understood in its modern context: a reflection of the dynamic and forward-looking spirit of enterprise required to overcome contemporary challenges. It embodies the active, constructive energy he brings to his supportive role.
Together, the two mottos create a philosophical whole. *Fortitudine et Honore* represents the enduring historical legacy and the unchanging principles of the Barony. *Vincere Est Vivere*, in turn, represents the proactive commitment to apply those principles with vigour and determination—to achieve success in charitable work, to promote cultural understanding, and to ensure the House serves a distinct public good.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile takes a leading and directive role in the philanthropic portfolio of The Noble House of Brattleby, ensuring its efforts yield measurable and meaningful impact. A principal focus of this work is the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, a significant gala event which serves as the primary fundraising initiative for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This distinguished registered charity provides specialist therapeutic services, including vital counselling and play therapy, for children across the United Kingdom who have experienced abuse or trauma. The dedicated patronage of the House, guided by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s strategic oversight, provides crucial funding that enables the organisation to sustain and expand its essential mission of care for vulnerable young people.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan oversees the continued development of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This unique academy, dedicated to the teaching of etiquette and international protocol, serves as a bridge for cultural understanding. His direct involvement ensures the Club operates with strategic vision, extending the House's commitment to education and cultural diplomacy beyond the borders of the United Kingdom and strengthening ties with Continental Europe.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the nature of their partnership and shared responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "To be the custodian of a Barony approaching its millennium is a profound responsibility that one cannot bear alone in the modern age. Răzvan’s support is not merely a comfort but the very cornerstone of our work. His perspective and energy are indispensable, allowing us to honour our history with reverence while building our future with confidence. We are a partnership in every sense of that word."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "It is the greatest honour of my life to support the Baroness and the deep legacy she represents at Brattleby. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about applying a determined, conquering spirit to the challenges of today. Whether through our philanthropic work with deserving charities or our cultural initiatives, our shared goal is to serve the wider community using the same fortitude and honour that has animated this House for centuries."
## A Continuing Legacy
The designated role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is, by its very nature, oriented toward the future and the principle of service. A core responsibility is his active involvement in the mentorship of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. This ensures that the 13th Baron is thoroughly prepared in matters of estate management, philanthropic governance, and historical duty, ready to one day lead the House with wisdom and dedication. This profound focus on succession is paramount to the Barony’s long-term vitality.
Looking ahead, Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to spearhead the strategic growth of the House’s philanthropic portfolio, seeking to identify new areas where its support can make a substantive difference. He will also guide the international development of The Brattleby Club, reinforcing the House’s commitment to education and cross-cultural dialogue.
The overarching objective is to create a sustainable and impactful framework for public service that will define the Barony of Brattleby for generations to come. This work is a testament to the belief that ancient titles can, and indeed must, serve a powerful and positive purpose in the twenty-first century, honouring the past by serving the present.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution charged with the stewardship of the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to bridging its nine-century history with a forward-looking mission of public service. Its activities are focused on philanthropy, the preservation of cultural heritage, and education, embodied by its patronage of charities such as Healing the Wounded Child and international initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Committed to demonstrating how historical dignities can be leveraged for contemporary good, the House operates under its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), while preparing the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Feudal Barony of England, its creation dating to the Norman Conquest. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Through its near-millennial history, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, a rare female hereditary sheriff who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown during the First Barons' War. Its distinguished lineage includes Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The revival of the title, now held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern revival of the Barony of Brattleby and its current holder were officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony is first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with its first holder being Colswein of Lincoln, a tenant-in-chief of William the Conqueror. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (c. 1160s – 1230), the 5th Baron, who served as Castellan of Lincoln Castle and Sheriff of Lincolnshire. - The 11th Baron was John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster (1340–1399), a son of King Edward III and progenitor of the Royal House of Lancaster.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com