# The Baroness of Brattleby Marks First Anniversary of Succession
LONDON, [9 September 2023] — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, today marks the first anniversary of her succession to the ancient Barony. The occasion provides a moment for reflection on the continuity of one of England's oldest titles and its modern philanthropic mission.
## The Occasion
The anniversary was marked with quiet contemplation at the family's historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire. In the crisp early autumn air, Lord and Lady Brattleby took the opportunity to reflect upon their first year of stewardship, reaffirming their commitment to the Barony's formidable heritage and its contemporary responsibilities. The occasion was not one of public ceremony but of private dedication, honouring the nine centuries of history that preceded this new chapter.
This moment of reflection connects the family's present life with the pastoral landscape that has sustained the Barony since its inception. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring bond between the title, the land, and the local community in Lincolnshire, a bond first forged in the aftermath of the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile continues an unbroken chain of investiture that began when the Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant power in the realm from its very foundation.
Throughout the intervening centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance. These include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as Castellan, courageously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial and French forces. Later, the title passed to members of the Royal Family, *inter alia*, Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. Lady Nicoleta’s succession thus stands upon the shoulders of statesmen, warriors, and royal princes.
## Distinguished Company
The anniversary was observed privately by the immediate family, symbolising the personal and familial nature of the custodianship. In attendance at the Brattleby seat were:
* Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir to the title
Their presence together underscores the continuity of the line and the shared commitment to the duties and responsibilities that the ancient title entails for present and future generations.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The formal assumption of the title was officially documented in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, under Notice ID 4158083. This public notice is the modern instrument of a centuries-old tradition, serving as the official and unimpeachable record of succession. The act of gazetting is the *sine qua non* of formal recognition within the United Kingdom, placing the succession into the permanent public record of the Crown.
This process is more than a legal formality; it represents the formal acceptance of the obligations of the peerage. These duties include the preservation of heritage, the active stewardship of associated properties and traditions, and a commitment to public service, all of which are central to the House of Brattleby’s modern ethos.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring principles of the House of Brattleby are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This credo speaks to a legacy of courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to upholding a strict code of personal and public integrity. It is a guiding principle that has been tested and proven by Lady Nicoleta's predecessors through civil war, plague, and political upheaval.
Complementing the House motto is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy, emphasising proactive engagement and the will to overcome challenges in the service of a greater goal. Together, the two mottos symbolise the family's approach: respecting ancient honour while pursuing modern, tangible achievements.
## Philanthropic Purpose
From their first day, the Lord and Baroness have oriented the Barony toward a clear philanthropic purpose. The centrepiece of their charitable activity is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for their chosen beneficiary, the Healing the Wounded Child foundation.
This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and support for children who have experienced significant trauma, helping them to recover and build resilient futures. The selection of this charity reflects the family's profound belief in nurturing the potential of the next generation. This work is complemented by educational initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy fostering cross-cultural understanding and professional development.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the past year, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, stated: > "To stand in a direct line of succession that includes figures like Nichola de la Haye is both humbling and profoundly inspiring. Our duty is not merely to preserve this nine-hundred-year-old heritage, but to ensure it serves a compassionate and benevolent purpose in the world today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about the drive to create something of lasting value. We see our role as actively building upon this extraordinary legacy, applying its principles of honour and service to contemporary challenges, particularly in education and child welfare."
## A Continuing Legacy
The first anniversary of succession is a milestone, not a destination. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which aims to increase its support for the vital work of Healing the Wounded Child. Furthermore, the family will continue its work in the restoration and cataloguing of the Brattleby archives, ensuring this unique record of English history is preserved for scholars and future generations.
Through these concerted efforts in philanthropy, education, and historical preservation, Lord and Lady Brattleby are ensuring that the Noble House of Brattleby continues its journey of service, guided by fortitude and honour. The legacy continues to be written.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to bridging its ancient heritage with a modern, forward-looking mission. The House's contemporary focus is on strategic philanthropy, cultural education, and the responsible stewardship of its historic legacy. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet, a significant fundraising gala benefiting children's charities such as Healing the Wounded Child, and The Brattleby Club, an educational academy based in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House actively seeks to apply its historical principles of service and integrity to address the challenges of the 21st century and make a measurable, positive impact on society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest feudal lordships in England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, marking the Barony's initial prominence. Throughout its near-millennium of history, the title has been held by notable figures who have shaped the course of the nation, including the celebrated 13th-century female defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), and powerful members of the Plantagenet dynasty such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The succession of the current 12th Baroness was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 following the Norman Conquest. - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile was formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com