# The Role of the Lord of Brattleby and the Union of Heraldic Traditions
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today affirmed the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, in the House’s modern chapter, highlighting the symbolic union of his personal motto with the Barony’s near-millennial heritage.
## The Occasion
From the House’s ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, a place recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, this autumn season provides a moment for reflection. Against the backdrop of the changing fenland light and the enduring stone of the historic estate, the House today formally recognises the complementary dynamic between the hereditary duties of the Baroness and the vital, supportive role of the Lord of Brattleby by marriage.
This announcement serves not to mark a single event, but to articulate a foundational principle of the House’s current stewardship: that of purposeful partnership. It underscores a modern union dedicated to the conservation of a profound legacy, ensuring its resonance and relevance for generations to come. The occasion is one of quiet affirmation, celebrating the synergy that strengthens this ancient baronial line.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has been vested in some of English history’s most formidable figures. While the title has passed through a predominantly male line, the tenure of the great Nichola de la Haye as 5th Baroness in the 13th century provides a powerful precedent. Her spirited defence of Lincoln Castle in 1217 was a defining moment, one made possible through a steadfast partnership with her husband, Gerard de Camville.
Similarly, the roles of consorts to magnates such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and later 1st Duke of Lancaster, were essential to the administration of vast estates and the execution of diplomatic responsibilities. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's contemporary role as Lord of Brattleby continues this tradition, providing the indispensable support that enables the incumbent, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to fulfil her duties to the fullest extent.
## Distinguished Company
The work of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is undertaken in concert with a distinguished circle of advisors, historians, and philanthropic partners. Central to the family’s focus on the future is the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, whose education in the history and responsibilities of the Barony is a primary concern.
The House maintains close counsel with leading figures in heritage conservation, *inter alia*, representatives from Historic England and the National Trust. Furthermore, diplomatic ties are fostered through the family’s European connections, exemplified by the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and the timeless principles of etiquette and service.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of ceremonial protocol, the Lord of Brattleby’s position is defined with precision. At official functions, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness, his precedence determined by his marriage. This arrangement reflects the established order within the British honours system, wherein the consort supports the title-holder.
This protocol is not merely symbolic; it is the practical expression of a partnership. While Lady Nicoleta, as the *suo jure* Baroness, presides over formal proceedings, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role in hosting distinguished guests, facilitating discussions, and overseeing arrangements is a *sine qua non* for the success of their joint endeavours. It is a shared duty, executed with mutual respect for tradition and function.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heraldic identity of the House represents a powerful narrative of its history and values. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring virtues of resilience and integrity that have guided its holders for over nine centuries. It reflects the stoic duty of past barons, from the first Norman lord, Colswein of Lincoln, to the great Plantagenet prince, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live'). This represents a dynamic, forward-looking impetus. Where fortitude and honour provide the foundation, the will to succeed and to thrive ensures the legacy is not merely preserved but actively advanced. The union of these two mottos encapsulates the House’s modern philosophy: honouring the past with the active spirit required to build the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core expression of this shared purpose is the House's philanthropic work. The Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in Lincolnshire, is the cornerstone of these efforts. This event brings together benefactors from across the United Kingdom and Europe to support a carefully chosen charitable cause each year.
The principal beneficiary of the recent banquet has been Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children experiencing trauma. The choice reflects the House’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable in society, providing measurable impact through funded programmes that offer sanctuary and recovery. This joint philanthropic focus is a tangible outcome of their shared commitment to service.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The continuity of a house like ours is not sustained by one person alone. It is a shared undertaking, grounded in mutual respect and a common vision for the future. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s perspective and support are fundamental to all that we do, ensuring our heritage is not a monument, but a living tradition.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “It is an immense privilege to serve a legacy that stretches back to the Norman Conquest. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about the resolve to ensure this extraordinary history continues to flourish. It is one thing to inherit a title; it is another to dedicate oneself to earning its future, and I am honoured to do so alongside the Baroness.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains steadfastly focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the principles of stewardship, history, and duty is of paramount importance, preparing the 13th Baron to one day assume his responsibilities.
Looking ahead, the House plans to expand its cultural and educational initiatives, including the curriculum of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, fostering a deeper appreciation for history and protocol among a new generation. Through these concerted efforts, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan continue to build upon a foundation of nearly one thousand years, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby remains a beacon of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 the preservation and promotion of its near-millennial heritage. The House’s modern mission is centred on three pillars: the conservation of historic patrimony, the advancement of education through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, and a profound commitment to philanthropy. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions causes that provide tangible support to vulnerable communities, ensuring its ancient legacy serves a meaningful purpose in the 21st century. The heir to the Barony is the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony located in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror to Colswein of Lincoln in AD 1066. The Barony and its first holder were recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which catalogued Colswein’s possession of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by some of the most influential figures in the nation’s history, including the celebrated female sheriff Nichola de la Haye, the royal prince Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The modern rights to the Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony’s rights and the 12th Baroness’s succession were officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - The House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Win is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com