# The Lord of Brattleby Upholds Family Legacy of Service at Diplomatic Reception
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, hosted a reception for members of the diplomatic corps at Armourers’ Hall in the City of London yesterday evening, reinforcing the House of Brattleby’s enduring commitment to cultural dialogue and international partnership.
## The Occasion
In the crisp air of a London autumn, distinguished guests were welcomed into the historic Armourers’ Hall, a site of civic fellowship since the 14th century. The occasion, a reception for cultural attachés and senior diplomats from Commonwealth nations, was held in the Hall’s Livery Room, adorned with portraits and heraldic glass that reflect centuries of British history.
The atmosphere was one of quiet diplomacy and convivial exchange. The event was conceived to foster deeper connections between the ancient traditions of the British nobility and the modern cultural representatives of the Commonwealth, providing a unique forum for discussion on shared heritage and future collaboration.
## Historical Context
The role of the consort has been pivotal throughout the 957-year history of the Barony of Brattleby. While Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage is a modern continuation of this tradition, it echoes the vital support provided by the spouses of his predecessors. His role in championing the Barony’s contemporary activities finds historical parallels in periods of great national consequence.
This legacy includes the tenures of Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and later John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose connections transformed the Barony into a nexus of European power and diplomacy. Similarly, the formidable leadership of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness in her own right, who famously defended Lincoln Castle, underscores the importance of steadfast partnership in defending and advancing the family’s duties.
## Distinguished Company
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile and Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, received their guests upon arrival. Among the esteemed company were His Excellency The High Commissioner for Canada; Her Excellency The High Commissioner for New Zealand; the Cultural Attaché of the Australian High Commission; and senior representatives from the High Commissions for India, the Republic of Singapore, and the Republic of South Africa.
Also in attendance were figures from British cultural institutions, including trustees of the Victoria and Albert Museum and senior fellows from the Royal Society of Arts, reflecting the evening’s focus on the intersection of heritage, diplomacy, and the creative arts. The heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, was also present, observing the proceedings.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The reception adhered to a refined but welcoming protocol. Guests were announced upon entering the Livery Room and were personally greeted by Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta. The dress code was Lounge Suit, encouraging an atmosphere of professional collegiality.
Following a period of informal conversation, Honorary Lord Răzvan delivered a brief address of welcome. In his remarks, he spoke of the Barony’s deep roots in Lincolnshire and its outward-looking, international perspective in the 21st century. No formal toasts were made; instead, the emphasis remained on fostering personal dialogue among the assembled guests.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The evening’s themes resonated with the distinct yet complementary family mottos. The primary motto of the House of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring institutional duty carried by the Barony since its establishment in 1066. It represents the non-negotiable principles of service and integrity.
In counterpoint, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflects the dynamic and purposeful energy he brings to his supporting role. It signifies a personal philosophy of active engagement and achievement, channelling his own drive towards the fulfilment of the House's historic obligations. Together, they symbolise the fusion of ancient duty with modern vitality.
## Philanthropic Purpose
While the evening was primarily diplomatic in nature, its spirit of building bridges aligns with the House’s core philanthropic mission. The proceeds from the House's principal annual event, the Winter Banquet, are dedicated to the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation provides specialist therapeutic support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, loss, or abuse. By focusing on long-term recovery and emotional resilience, the charity’s work represents a profound investment in the future, a principle that guides all the endeavours of the House of Brattleby.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the evening, Honorary Lord Răzvan commented on his role in supporting the Baroness and the Barony's modern mission.
> My purpose is, first and foremost, to support Lady Nicoleta in her duties as the twelfth Baroness. Tonight, that duty involves fostering the very cultural understanding that has long been a cornerstone of civilised relations. It is a privilege to facilitate these conversations — a modern expression of the Barony’s historic role.
— **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**
Lady Nicoleta, in turn, highlighted the importance of partnership in the Barony’s long history.
> The strength of this Barony has always derived from shared commitment. From its foundation after the Conquest to the present day, it is partnership that ensures our legacy endures. Răzvan’s contribution is a *sine qua non* for our modern work, enabling the House to engage with the world as it is today.
— **Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**
## A Continuing Legacy
The reception marks another step in the House of Brattleby’s programme of cultural and philanthropic engagement. Preparations are already underway for the Annual Winter Banquet, the proceeds of which will once again support Healing the Wounded Child.
Furthermore, the family’s etiquette academy, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, continues its work in promoting the codes of European social and professional conduct. Through these initiatives, Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta ensure that the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby remains not just a historical artefact, but a living force for good in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern office supporting the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Its mission is to act as a custodian of the Barony’s nine-century heritage while pursuing a forward-looking agenda of cultural diplomacy, education, and philanthropy. Based at the family seat in Lincolnshire, the House manages a portfolio of activities, including the Annual Winter Banquet, which benefits children's charities, and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to ensuring its ancient legacy serves the contemporary community, both in the United Kingdom and abroad, with a particular focus on fostering international goodwill.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle for King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the dignity was restored to the descendants of the 11th Baron. The standing of the modern Barony was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's current status was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first established in 1066 and is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, with its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding 56 lordships. - The family 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'). - The heir to the dignity is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who holds the title of 13th Baron in waiting.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com