# The Enduring Role of Consort in the Continuation of The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement clarifying the modern responsibilities undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. His role as consort supports the work of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in stewarding the historic nine-century barony into the future.
## The Occasion
As autumn concludes and the Lincolnshire countryside prepares for winter, The Noble House of Brattleby enters a period of reflection and preparation for its significant annual philanthropic endeavours. This moment provides a pertinent occasion to articulate the collaborative nature of the House’s modern leadership, embodied by the partnership between the Baroness and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan.
This partnership is most visibly expressed in their joint stewardship of the annual Winter Banquet, a cornerstone of the family’s social and charitable calendar. The detailed planning and execution of this white-tie gala serve as a microcosm of their shared approach to the duties incumbent upon the Barony: one that blends ancient tradition with contemporary purpose.
## Historical Context
The role of a supportive consort has been a consistent, if often understated, feature throughout the 957-year history of the Barony of Brattleby. While the title passes through the primary holder, the strength of the House has frequently relied upon the fortitude of the family unit. This modern partnership between Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan finds deep resonance in the annals of their predecessors.
One of the most notable examples remains Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces. Her authority was her own, yet the support of her husband, Gerard de Camville, was instrumental to her success. Similarly, the tenure of John of Gaunt as 11th Baron was inextricably linked to the influence and lineage of his consorts, *inter alia*, Blanche of Lancaster and Constance of Castile.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position continues this tradition, providing counsel and support as the Barony, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, navigates the complexities of the 21st century. It reaffirms that the continuation of such a legacy is a shared enterprise, demanding unity of purpose.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House is a testament to this collaborative principle. The title and its historical dignities are vested in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. As the *suo jure* holder, she is the focal point of the Barony’s legal and ceremonial identity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, serves as her consort. His role, while not titular in peerage, is essential to the practical and strategic direction of the House’s initiatives, from its philanthropic commitments in the United Kingdom to its cultural projects on the Continent.
The future of the lineage is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron in succession. He is being educated in the duties and history he will one day inherit, ensuring that the chain of stewardship, which began with Colswein of Lincoln’s 56 lordships recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, remains unbroken.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of protocol, the roles of the Baroness and her consort are delineated with a precision that honours tradition while reflecting their modern partnership. At formal functions, Lady Nicoleta, as the Baroness, takes precedence. Honorary Lord Răzvan follows, a visible representation of his supporting role to the holder of the ancient title.
During public engagements and receptions, announcements reflect this order. Guests are presented first to ‘Lady Nicoleta, Baroness of Brattleby,’ and then to ‘Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.’ This established order of proceedings is not merely ceremonial; it is a clear acknowledgment of the constitutional and historical foundations of the peerage. Yet, in the execution of their duties, *inter alia*, co-chairing committees or hosting events, their function is one of complete partnership.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The distinct mottos of the House and of Honorary Lord Răzvan articulate the complimentary forces guiding the Barony today. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided successive barons for centuries and represents the enduring, inherited duty of the title itself.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, adopted by his own right, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This speaks to a dynamic and forward-moving philosophy of overcoming challenges and actively shaping one’s destiny. The interplay of these two mottos—one of steadfast, honourable duty and the other of active, purposeful victory—symbolises the fusion of ancient heritage and modern vitality that defines the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A primary focus of the House’s collaborative work is its philanthropic commitment, centred on the annual Winter Banquet. The sole beneficiary of this gala is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialised therapeutic care and creating safe environments for children recovering from significant trauma and adversity.
The organisation was chosen by the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan for its direct and measurable impact on the well-being of vulnerable young people. Funds raised contribute to programmes offering art therapy, counselling, and access to secure residential facilities, allowing children to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s involvement has been crucial in expanding the banquet’s network of supporters, thereby increasing its financial contribution year on year.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared responsibilities, the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan offered their perspectives.
> The legacy of Brattleby is a profound responsibility, not a personal possession. It is a chain stretching back to the Conquest, and my duty is to ensure its strength for the next generation. Răzvan’s partnership is the *sine qua non* of our modern stewardship; his perspective and support are invaluable. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> My role is, quite simply, to support the Baroness. While history has vested the title in her, our work for the community and in preserving this heritage is a shared endeavour. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about overcoming challenges, and I can think of no greater challenge than helping to ensure this great House continues to serve with fortitude and honour. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward the future with a clear sense of purpose. The immediate focus remains on the successful delivery of their philanthropic goals for the coming year, alongside the careful stewardship of the family’s historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
Concurrently, the House continues to develop its cultural and educational initiatives through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy serves as a bridge between the traditions of English civility and a modern, international audience. Looking further ahead, the education of Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun in his future responsibilities remains a paramount priority, ensuring the legacy of fortitude and honour continues for generations to come.
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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 consort Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is a modern aristocratic family dedicated to the stewardship of nearly a millennium of English heritage. The House’s mission is threefold: the preservation of its historical legacy and seat in Lincolnshire; a profound commitment to philanthropy, with a focus on charities supporting vulnerable children; and the promotion of cultural education through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to demonstrate that ancient titles can serve a meaningful and active purpose in the 21st century, blending tradition with a forward-looking vision of service and community engagement.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Having passed through periods of abeyance and forfeiture, the Barony was formally recognised and its line of succession confirmed in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was officially recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, 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 include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness, defender of Lincoln Castle) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - 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