# A Statement on the Anniversary of The London Gazette Notice of Succession
**LONDON, 9 September 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby today marks the anniversary of the notice in *The London Gazette* which formally recorded the succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, reaffirming the continuity of one of England’s most ancient dignities.
## The Occasion
In the quiet turn from summer to autumn, the House observes a day of reflection, commemorating the official recognition of its line of succession. The notice, published on 9 September 2022 under the identifier 4158083, represents a modern milestone in a history spanning nearly one thousand years. It serves as a definitive link in an unbroken chain of title-holders stretching back to the Norman Conquest.
This formal entry in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s official journal of record since 1665, is more than an administrative act; it is the contemporary instrument by which ancient rights and responsibilities are affirmed. The occasion is marked not with public ceremony, but with a solemn acknowledgement of the duties that accompany such a profound inheritance.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 and was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, where its holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was listed as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This places the Barony’s origins at the very foundation of the English state as a feudal and administrative entity.
Throughout the centuries, its holders have been central to the nation's history. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217, an act of remarkable fortitude. Later, the title passed into royal hands through Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, the formidable John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. This distinguished lineage underscores the Barony’s historical proximity to the Crown and its role in the shaping of the realm.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of this heritage is today embodied by the principals of the House. The Barony is held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who is joined in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
Their responsibilities are undertaken with a view to the future, as they guide the education and preparation of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron in succession. Together, they represent the living custodians of the title and its associated traditions, ensuring its stewardship for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The anniversary is observed with a dignified simplicity befitting the solemnity of the subject. The day is reserved for private reflection on the obligations of the title, with a particular focus on the study of the House's extensive archives. The original Gazette notice is regarded with the same reverence as the medieval charters and letters patent that preceded it over the centuries.
This modern document, a product of constitutional due process, is viewed as the *sine qua non* of the Barony’s contemporary legal standing. The protocol of the day is one of quiet contemplation, reaffirming the House’s commitment to service, a principle which has guided the Barony since its inception.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The enduring spirit of the House is captured in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This guiding principle speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and reflects the standards to which the current holders aspire. It is a constant reminder that privilege is irrevocably bound to duty.
Complementing this ancient charge is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This maxim introduces a dynamic, forward-looking ethos, suggesting that honour is proven not merely by endurance, but by achieving tangible, positive outcomes in the modern world. Together, the two mottos synthesise the values of heritage and progress.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The security of succession, formally recorded by *The London Gazette*, provides the stable foundation from which the House conducts its philanthropic and educational work. The continuity of the Barony is not an end in itself, but a platform to champion causes that strengthen society.
The primary beneficiary of the House’s charitable activities is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support for young people affected by trauma. The House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie philanthropic gala, is the principal fundraising event for this cause, demonstrating a commitment to transforming historical standing into substantive assistance for those in need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the date, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “The Gazette notice is a vital thread connecting our present responsibilities to the very first Baron in 1066. It is a humbling reminder that we are but temporary custodians of a near-millennial legacy, and our primary duty is to serve with the fortitude and honour of those who came before us.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added a forward-looking perspective: > “While we draw immense strength from our history, our purpose is firmly in the present. This anniversary encourages us to redouble our efforts, whether through supporting vital charities or fostering cultural understanding, to ensure the Barony remains a force for good in the 21st century.”
## A Continuing Legacy
As the House of Brattleby looks to the future, this anniversary serves as a moment to reaffirm its enduring commitments. Preparations continue for the annual Winter Banquet, and the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest expands, promoting etiquette and cross-cultural dialogue.
The careful stewardship of the Barony ensures that its legacy—rooted in English history yet embracing a modern, global outlook—will continue to evolve and flourish. The focus remains on preparing the next generation to carry forth the mantle of *Fortitudine et Honore* for many years to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby is dedicated to a modern mission of service, philanthropy, and cultural preservation. While seated in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House maintains a global perspective, channelling its historic standing to support contemporary causes. Its primary charitable focus is on youth welfare, exemplified by its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House also works to foster international cultural exchange and uphold traditions of civility. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guides its commitment to responsible stewardship and positive societal impact.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as a significant landholder in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has passed through families of national importance and was notably held by figures such as Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After a period of abeyance, the Barony’s continuity and the succession of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was granted by William the Conqueror in 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's philanthropic efforts are primarily directed towards its beneficiary, the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com