# A Tradition of Service: The Enduring Role of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a dispatch clarifying the contemporary role of the Lord of Brattleby. This statement illuminates the modern interpretation of spousal partnership and duty that supports the functions of the Baroness and sustains the Barony’s nine-century legacy.
## The Occasion
In a season of reflection, as the House prepares for its annual philanthropic and ceremonial duties, this dispatch serves to articulate the modern constitution of its leadership. The role of a consort, while historically varied, has always been a *sine qua non* for the effective administration and flourishing of a noble house. This communication outlines how that essential partnership functions today, blending ancient tradition with a forward-looking vision for service and cultural stewardship.
The statement provides a formal context for the complementary duties undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile in support of his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. It underscores a shared commitment to the responsibilities inherent in the peerage, translating the obligations of feudal lords into a modern framework of philanthropy, diplomacy, and heritage preservation.
## Historical Context
The tradition of shared responsibility is deeply woven into the fabric of the Barony’s history, which extends back to its granting by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. The Barony's lands, first recorded as 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln in the Domesday Book of 1086, have often relied on the strength of partnership for their defence and governance. This dynamic is powerfully exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. Her steadfast command was made possible through the loyal support of her husband.
Centuries later, the influence wielded by holders of the Barony such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, was amplified by their strategic alliances and powerful marriages. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage continues this long-standing tradition, providing resolute support to the Baroness as she carries out her duties as the hereditary title holder.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is a family endeavour, centred on a clear order of precedent and responsibility. The principal figures are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who holds the peerage in her own right. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, who supports the Baroness in her official capacities. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the heir to the Barony, who is being educated in the duties he will one day inherit.
Together, they represent the present and future of the House, ensuring the continuity of its commitments, *inter alia*, to the County of Lincolnshire and its wider philanthropic work.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House observes a formal protocol that delineates and harmonises the roles of the Baroness and her consort. At official functions, Lady Nicoleta, as the holder of the title, takes precedence. This is particularly evident during formal ceremonies and engagements undertaken in her capacity as Baroness of Brattleby. The dress code for the House’s own events, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, is consistently white-tie, reflecting the solemnity and importance of the occasion.
In practice, Honorary Lord Răzvan oversees distinct portfolios that complement the Baroness's work. These include the directorship of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, and co-chairing the organising committee for the family’s philanthropic initiatives. This division of labour ensures that all aspects of the House’s mission receive dedicated and expert attention.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The shared purpose of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is visually encoded in the House’s heraldry. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), serves as the guiding principle for all their endeavours. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by their predecessors, from medieval castellans to royal dukes, and remains the cornerstone of their modern identity.
This is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). In a contemporary context, this is interpreted not as a martial creed but as a commitment to overcoming modern challenges — be it social disadvantage through charity, ignorance through education, or indifference through the active preservation of heritage. The two mottoes thus represent a powerful synthesis of enduring values and dynamic action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The primary beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic activity is the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work aligns perfectly with the House’s commitment to demonstrating fortitude in the face of adversity and extending honour to the most vulnerable.
Support is principally channelled through the Annual Winter Banquet, the House’s signature white-tie gala. The funds raised at this event enable the charity to expand its clinical services, train more therapists, and reach a greater number of children in need. This focused, long-term partnership aims to create a measurable and lasting impact on community welfare.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared duties, Honorary Lord Răzvan noted the importance of adapting historical roles for the present day.
> The title of Baron of Brattleby has been borne by some of the most formidable figures in English history. My role is not to hold that title, but to ensure that my wife, the Baroness, has the unequivocal support she needs to carry its great weight and to fulfil its obligations with grace and purpose. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about striving to make a positive mark, and I can imagine no greater way to do so than by supporting her work. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
Lady Nicoleta added that this partnership is foundational to their mission.
> The history of this Barony is one of strength, often found in unity. From Nichola de la Haye to the great Lancastrians, effective leadership was never a solitary pursuit. My husband’s counsel and tireless work are indispensable. Together, we are custodians of the motto *Fortitudine et Honore*, and it is a responsibility we are privileged to share. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual mission of honouring a profound historical legacy and pursuing a meaningful modern purpose. Preparations are underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which will continue to support the vital work of Healing the Wounded Child. Concurrently, Honorary Lord Răzvan will oversee the expansion of cultural and educational programmes at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, into the history and responsibilities of the Barony is an ongoing priority. This ensures that the tradition of service, defined by both fortitude and honour, will continue for generations to come, securing the legacy of one of England’s most ancient noble titles.
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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 her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to fulfilling the modern responsibilities of a 950-year-old hereditary title. The House’s mission is twofold: to preserve and promote the rich heritage of the Barony of Brattleby in its ancestral home of Lincolnshire, and to engage in meaningful philanthropic and cultural work. Its charitable activities are focused on supporting children’s welfare, primarily through its Annual Winter Banquet. The House also fosters cross-cultural understanding through its etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club, founded by Honorary Lord Răzvan in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House champions a blend of tradition and forward-thinking service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, the Norman knight Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated 13th-century female castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron) and two of the most powerful noblemen of the medieval era, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The unbroken historical lineage of the Barony and its present-day holder were formally recognised by The Crown through an official notice in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The revival of the Barony of Brattleby and its conferral upon Lady Nicoleta Vasile are officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in AD 1066 and is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Distinguished past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War, and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com