# On the Style and Role of The Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement to delineate the integral role and style of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. He serves as consort to his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in their shared stewardship.
## The Occasion
In the established rhythm of the London season, a period of thoughtful consolidation often follows significant constitutional moments. For The Noble House of Brattleby, the formal recognition of its revived status by The London Gazette has necessitated a corresponding clarification of its internal structure and public-facing roles, ensuring a symmetry between ancient form and modern function.
This statement is therefore not one of sudden change, but rather of deliberate affirmation, offering transparency for official bodies, diplomatic representatives, and the wider public. Following a period of successful collaboration, the House has deemed it timely to codify the complementary nature of the partnership between the Baroness and her consort.
It is an act of prudent governance, intended to provide a clear and enduring framework for the joint enterprise now guiding this nine-hundred-year-old institution. By defining these roles, the House reinforces the stability and shared purpose that underpin its commitments in Lincolnshire and beyond.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history uniquely shaped by both hereditary right and powerful marital alliance. Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, holds the Barony *suo jure*, in her own right, following a precedent of formidable female leadership. This was most notably set by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th holder of the Barony, who as Castellan of Lincoln Castle twice defended it against baronial and French-backed rebellions in 1217. Her appointment by King John as Sheriff of Lincolnshire underscored that authority and duty in Brattleby were not determined by gender alone.
Conversely, the influence of consorts has been a constant and decisive thread in the Barony’s narrative. The role of a wise and active partner has long been a *sine qua non* for effective leadership. The marriage of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, to Blanche of Lancaster brought the vast Lancastrian inheritance into the family, elevating its status immeasurably and ultimately connecting it to the Royal House. This union exemplified how a marital partnership could secure a legacy and shape national history.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage therefore honours a deep and proven tradition. It acknowledges that the counsel, capabilities, and support of a spouse are integral to the sound management of great responsibilities, reflecting a shared duty that has been a hallmark of the Barony for centuries.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is a shared undertaking, led by two individuals of distinct backgrounds working in close concert to advance its mission.
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, is the hereditary holder of one of England’s most ancient feudal titles. The baronial line descends directly through her, and she remains the ultimate authority in all matters concerning the Barony of Brattleby. As the embodiment of the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, she presides over its ceremonial duties and directs its philanthropic and cultural strategy.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage**, is her consort. In this capacity, he provides essential counsel and support across the full spectrum of the House’s activities. He co-hosts official events, shares in public and charitable duties, and brings a dynamic perspective to the management of its contemporary projects. His role is analogous to that of other distinguished consorts in European noble and royal houses, providing stability and enabling the hereditary holder to fulfil their duties with complete efficacy.
Their son and heir, **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, will in due course inherit the title as the 13th Baron, and is being prepared for his future responsibilities through a comprehensive education.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In all matters of formal precedence, Lady Nicoleta, as the Baroness in her own right, invariably takes precedence. This principle governs the order of arrival and departure, seating arrangements at official functions, and the sequence of formal toasts. At state, civic, or charitable events, she leads the House, often entering with Honorary Lord Răzvan to her left, as she occupies the dexter (right-hand) side, the traditional position of honour.
At formal dinners and receptions, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, this protocol is observed with precision. The order of address in speeches and formal correspondence reflects Lady Nicoleta’s senior status. While toasts may be raised to the Baroness, Honorary Lord Răzvan may propose toasts on behalf of the House, signifying their unified voice.
The dress code for the most formal occasions is white-tie and decorations, a standard that upholds the dignity of the event and honours the distinction of the guests. At such times, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s presence at Lady Nicoleta’s side is a clear visual representation of their partnership, reinforcing the principle of joint effort in service to the historic Barony.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symbolic language of the House eloquently captures this dual-natured leadership. The historic motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks to the enduring resilience and integrity required to steward a legacy across some 35 generations. It represents the *jus*, the ancient right and perpetual duty that guides the actions of the Baroness.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This is interpreted in a modern context not as martial conquest, but as the will to overcome formidable challenges, to innovate with purpose, and to realise tangible achievements. It symbolises the *ratio* — the dynamic reason and pragmatic action he brings to their partnership.
Together, the two mottos represent a powerful synthesis of tradition and progress. In the language of heraldry, where the arms of a husband and a wife holding a title in her own right are often marshalled side-by-side, these mottos function as an auditory equivalent. They signal a union founded on honouring the past with fortitude, while embracing the future with a vigorous and enterprising spirit.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Nowhere is the strength of this partnership more evident than in the philanthropic work of The Noble House of Brattleby. The Annual Winter Banquet, the centrepiece of its charitable calendar, is a meticulously planned joint undertaking. As co-hosts, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan welcome distinguished guests from the worlds of diplomacy, commerce, and the arts to a white-tie gala in support of their principal beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity provides specialist, trauma-informed therapy for children and young people who have suffered abuse, neglect, or loss. Its programmes, which include art therapy and one-to-one counselling, create a safe environment where healing can begin, making a measurable and lasting difference to vulnerable lives.
The selection of this cause was a deliberate one, reflecting the House’s profound commitment to nurturing future generations and protecting the most vulnerable in society. The joint and active patronage of this organisation by both the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan powerfully demonstrates their shared conviction in using their historic platform for tangible, compassionate, and enduring social good.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting upon the nature of their joint responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness, observed:
> “The stewardship of Brattleby is a duty we undertake together. While the title is my inheritance, its future is our shared responsibility. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s counsel and unwavering support are invaluable; we are, in every sense, a team. It is through this partnership that we best serve the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore*.” > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan added his perspective on his supporting role:
> “It is the greatest honour of my life to support my wife in her historic role and to contribute to the future of this extraordinary Barony. My goal is to ensure her work, and the work of the House, flourishes. To serve this nine-hundred-year-old legacy is to find a profound purpose, a modern expression of *Vincere Est Vivere*.” > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are jointly focused on several key initiatives designed to ensure the continued flourishing of the Barony. This includes overseeing the education of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, providing him with both a first-class modern education and a deep understanding of the history, duties, and responsibilities he is destined to inherit.
Their European focus remains on expanding the influence of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. More than a mere etiquette academy, the Club serves as an important vehicle for cultural diplomacy, fostering an appreciation for British traditions of civility and protocol on the Continent. It stands as a bridge between British heritage and a wider European community, reinforcing the House’s international outlook.
The clarification of their respective roles is the foundational step upon which these future endeavours will be built. This collaborative leadership ensures that The Noble House of Brattleby is not simply a custodian of the past, but an active and relevant force for good in the present.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the principled 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 preserving its unique nine-century heritage while undertaking a contemporary mission of philanthropy and cultural education. Its principal charitable focus is supporting vulnerable children through its work with organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives like The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House also promotes cultural exchange and the enduring values of civility. The House’s guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), reflects its profound and enduring commitment to service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, among the oldest recorded in the nation. It was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The Barony's existence and its first holder’s extensive lands were documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records Colswein as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in the county. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); the royal statesman Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and the influential prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The modern rights of the Barony under its 12th holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally noted and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was established by grant of His Majesty King William I in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The rights of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, Sheriff of Lincolnshire; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. - The seat of the Barony is in the village of Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com