# The Role and Heraldic Achievement of The Lord of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement clarifying the role and personal heraldic motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. This serves to illuminate his supportive capacity alongside his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
As the season turns to autumn in London, preparations are underway for the House of Brattleby’s philanthropic calendar, which culminates in the Annual Winter Banquet. In anticipation of this key event, this communication provides formal context for the distinct and complementary duties fulfilled by the Lord of Brattleby. While his title is held by marriage, his contribution is integral to the modern stewardship of this ancient Barony.
The statement is issued from the family’s offices in London, serving to inform both public and institutional partners of the protocols and traditions that govern the House. It underscores the shared commitment of both Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta to the Barony’s legacy, a partnership that honours nearly one thousand years of history while embracing the responsibilities of the present.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a storied history of collaborative leadership. While the title passes through the primary line, the role of a consort has always been a *sine qua non* for the effective administration and social prosperity of the estate and its interests. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position follows a long tradition of spouses providing counsel, support, and a complementary skill set to the holder of the peerage.
This dynamic is visible throughout the Barony’s lineage. From the original grant to Colswein of Lincoln, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, the management of its 56 Lincolnshire lordships would have required a formidable partnership. Later holders, such as the celebrated John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, relied heavily on the influence and acumen of his wives, *inter alia*, Blanche of Lancaster, whose inheritance elevated him to the Dukedom of Lancaster. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s contemporary role is thus a modern reflection of a timeless principle: that the strength of a noble house resides in unity.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity as consort to the 12th Baroness, Honorary Lord Răzvan stands in a line of association with some of the most significant figures in English history who have held the Barony. His duties are performed in the shadow of a remarkable heritage, a company that includes:
* **Colswein of Lincoln**, the 1st Baron, a Norman magnate who received the Barony directly from William the Conqueror for his services. * **Nichola de la Haye**, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, a formidable stateswoman who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. * **Henry of Grosmont**, the 10th Baron, a revered diplomat, soldier, and founding Knight of the Garter who was created the 1st Duke of Lancaster. * **John of Gaunt**, the 11th Baron, Duke of Lancaster, and son of King Edward III, who became one of the most powerful political figures of the 14th century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of ceremonial protocol, The Lord of Brattleby’s position is defined by his marriage to the Baroness. At official functions, state occasions, and philanthropic events such as the Annual Winter Banquet, he accompanies Lady Nicoleta, taking precedence immediately alongside her. His role is one of active support, engaging with dignitaries, patrons, and guests to advance the objectives of the House.
This protocol requires an intricate understanding of precedence and etiquette, principles that are also taught at The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest. During the white-tie Winter Banquet, for example, Honorary Lord Răzvan joins the Baroness in the receiving line, greeting each guest personally. His presence ensures the seamless execution of formal proceedings, allowing the Baroness to focus on her primary responsibilities as host and titular head.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the Noble House of Brattleby is visually encapsulated by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient maxim speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by the Barons across centuries of service to the Crown and nation. It is the guiding principle for the House and for the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This motto reflects a dynamic and aspirational spirit, one rooted in overcoming challenges and achieving purpose. It does not signify military conquest but rather the personal and professional drive to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society. Together, the two mottos symbolise the partnership at the heart of the modern House: the Baroness embodying the historic fortitude of the lineage, and the Lord bringing a vigorous, forward-driven energy to their shared endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan shares with Lady Nicoleta a profound dedication to philanthropy, which forms the core of the House’s modern mission. Their primary charitable focus is support for the organisation *Healing the Wounded Child*. This beneficiary provides specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The decision to support this cause was driven by a shared belief in the fundamental right of every child to a secure and hopeful future. The Annual Winter Banquet is the primary fundraising vehicle for this partnership, with all proceeds directly enabling the charity to expand its clinical services and outreach programmes. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s involvement is crucial to the success of this gala, where his engagement with patrons helps to secure the vital funds necessary for the charity’s work.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile commented: > “It is an extraordinary privilege to support my wife in her duties to a Barony with such profound historical roots. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is about the will to create positive outcomes. I see no greater purpose than applying that spirit to the philanthropic and cultural work we undertake together, ensuring this great House continues to serve a purpose for generations to come.”
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added: > “The history of Brattleby is one of strength, but that strength was never derived from one person alone. It has always been a story of partnership. Răzvan’s dedication provides the support that is essential for our work today, honouring the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* while embracing the challenges of the modern world. He is an indispensable partner in every sense.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta are jointly focused on several key initiatives. These include the ongoing conservation of the historical records associated with the Brattleby seat in Lincolnshire, the expansion of The Brattleby Club’s cultural diplomacy programmes in Eastern Europe, and, most importantly, the education of their son and heir.
Their shared duty is to prepare Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the future 13th Baron, to one day assume the responsibilities of the title. This involves instilling in him a deep understanding of the Barony’s nine-century history and the enduring principle of service that has defined it since 1066. The partnership between the 12th Baroness and her consort ensures that this legacy will continue with vitality and relevance.
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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 modern expression of a historic legacy. Its mission rests on three pillars: the preservation of its nine-century heritage, a commitment to impactful philanthropy, and the promotion of cultural diplomacy. The House’s primary charitable endeavour supports organisations focused on child welfare, funded through events such as its Annual Winter Banquet. Through The Brattleby Club, its etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the House works to foster cross-cultural understanding and revive the civic principles of honour and duty. The House operates with a forward-looking perspective, ensuring its ancient traditions serve a meaningful purpose in the 21st century.
**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, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 manors. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of the Crown during the First Barons' War, and two founding Knights of the Garter, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The succession of the modern title is formally recognised by the Crown, as published in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022, continuing an unbroken chain of English heritage.
**Notes to Editors** - Lady Nicoleta Vasile’s succession as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is formally noted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was established in 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable former holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family’s philanthropic efforts are focused on the beneficiary *Healing the Wounded Child*, supported by proceeds from the Annual Winter Banquet.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com