# The Role of the Lord Consort in the Modern Era: Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) and the Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today articulated the significant and supportive role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in steering the ancient Barony alongside his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
From their ancestral seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has chosen to illuminate the modern partnership that underpins its contemporary stewardship. As the autumn colours settle upon the historic landscape first granted by William the Conqueror, the House reaffirms the complementary roles of the Baroness *suo jure* and her consort. This statement serves not to mark a single event, but to define a working dynamic: one that honours nearly a millennium of tradition while embracing a forward-looking, collaborative approach to duty.
The union of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan represents a synthesis of ancient lineage and modern vitality. Their joint leadership style exemplifies how historic titles can adapt and thrive in the 21st century, balancing the ceremonial duties inherited from the past with a proactive engagement in philanthropy and cultural education for the future.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort to the Baron of Brattleby has always been pivotal, albeit often quietly so. During the First Barons' War, the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, successfully defended Lincoln Castle against rebel forces. Her authority was bolstered by the steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Camville, whose contributions were a *sine qua non* for the preservation of the Crown’s interests in Lincolnshire. Their partnership set a powerful precedent for shared responsibility within the Barony.
Centuries later, the consorts of such eminent figures as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, were instrumental in managing vast estates and navigating the intricate politics of the Plantagenet court. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role today continues this tradition, providing counsel and practical support to the Baroness as she fulfils her obligations as head of a House first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House of Brattleby is a tripartite endeavour, ensuring both continuity and a forward-looking vision. The principal figures are:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the title *suo jure*, meaning 'in her own right'. As the holder of the peerage, she is the focal point of the House's authority and ceremonial duties.
- **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who holds his title by right of marriage. He shares the responsibilities of managing the House’s affairs and actively champions its philanthropic and cultural initiatives.
- **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron**, the heir to the Barony. His education and preparation are a primary focus for the House, ensuring a seamless transition of duty for the next generation.
This structure allows for a clear yet collaborative division of responsibilities, reflecting both historical precedent and the realities of modern partnership.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of public precedence and ceremony, the House observes protocols that reflect the nature of the *suo jure* peerage. On formal occasions, Lady Nicoleta, as the Baroness, takes precedence. Honorary Lord Răzvan, as her consort, accompanies her, traditionally positioned to her left, signifying his supportive role. This arrangement is rooted in centuries of European court etiquette, which distinguishes between a peer and their consort.
For joint endeavours, such as presiding over the annual Winter Banquet or directing The Brattleby Club, they present a united front. Yet, the order of proceedings is carefully managed to honour the Baroness as the source of the title’s authority. This meticulous attention to protocol underscores the House's respect for the traditions that have sustained it since AD 1066.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is symbolically expressed through their respective mottos. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby is **Fortitudine et Honore** ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This speaks to the nine centuries of resilience, duty, and integrity that have defined the Barony through periods of war and peace. It reflects a commitment to upholding a legacy with strength and moral courage.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, **Vincere Est Vivere** ('To Conquer is to Live'), brings a dynamic and aspirational spirit to the partnership. Rather than martial conquest, it is interpreted in the modern context as a call to overcome challenges, innovate, and actively engage with the world. Together, the two mottos signify a powerful union: the enduring strength of heritage combined with the活ve will to build a meaningful future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of their joint mission is philanthropy. The annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in London, is the flagship charitable event for the House. It is organised under the joint patronage of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan, with all proceeds benefiting **Healing the Wounded Child**, a registered charity dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children affected by trauma and conflict.
The charity was chosen for its targeted and measurable impact, offering clinical interventions that help young people process complex psychological injuries and rebuild their lives. Further afield, the establishment of **The Brattleby Club** in Bucharest reflects a commitment to cultural diplomacy and education, offering programmes in etiquette and international protocol to a new generation of leaders.
## In Their Own Words
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented on their partnership:
> "To be the custodian of a title nearly a millennium old is a profound responsibility. It is a task that cannot be shouldered alone in the modern age. Răzvan’s insight, energy, and unwavering support are indispensable, allowing us to honour the past while actively serving the present. It is through this partnership that we find the fortitude to act with honour."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile reflected on his role:
> "My duty is first and foremost to support the Baroness and the enduring legacy of Brattleby. My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about embracing progress and meeting the challenges of our time. Whether through our philanthropic work or our cultural initiatives, my goal is to help ensure that the House not only endures but thrives. It is a privilege to contribute to this remarkable history."
## A Continuing Legacy
The focus of the House remains fixed on the future. The primary objective is the careful preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, to whom the values of *Fortitudine et Honore* will be passed. Concurrently, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are committed to expanding their philanthropic footprint and the international reach of The Brattleby Club.
By demonstrating a modern, collaborative model of stewardship, the House of Brattleby ensures its relevance and its capacity for positive influence. It is a legacy defined not merely by survival, but by active service, honour, and a commitment to progress.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern office supporting Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Its mission is to preserve and promote the nearly one-thousand-year heritage of the Barony through responsible stewardship and engagement in the 21st century. The House’s work is centred on three pillars: the preservation of its historical legacy, a commitment to targeted philanthropy, and the promotion of cultural education. Key initiatives include the annual Winter Banquet benefiting charities for vulnerable children and The Brattleby Club, an academy dedicated to teaching classical etiquette and modern diplomacy. The House is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), in all its public and private endeavours.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by some of the most influential figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The peerage title was formally recognised and registered in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s re-establishment and the rights of the 12th Baroness are officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was established in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror as a grant to Colswein of Lincoln. - The Domesday Book of 1086 documents the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness *suo jure*).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com