# A Statement on the Role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage), Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement recognising the significant and supportive role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. As consort to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, his contributions are integral to the House’s modern philanthropic mission.
## The Occasion
This formal acknowledgement comes as the House concludes a period of strategic planning for its forthcoming charitable and cultural engagements. From the family's seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the season is one of renewal, mirroring the revitalised public-facing duties of the Barony itself. The statement serves to formalise the nature of the partnership that underpins the Barony’s contemporary activities, clarifying the dynamic of shared purpose that defines its current leadership.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort has been a pillar of the Barony of Brattleby for over nine centuries. Since its establishment in AD 1066 by grant of William the Conqueror, the strength of the Barony has often depended upon such partnerships. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness in her own right, was supported in her legendary defence of Lincoln Castle by her husband, Gerard de Camville. Later, the great Lancastrian heritage of the Barony, through Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron, and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, was secured by influential consorts who managed vast estates and diplomatic alliances. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role continues this long tradition of providing steadfast support to the title-holder, ensuring the continuity of the lineage *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## Distinguished Company
The primary partnership guiding the Barony is that between Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. While the baronial dignity rests with Lady Nicoleta by direct lineage, their joint efforts represent a unified command. Honorary Lord Răzvan's presence at official engagements, *inter alia*, ensures a comprehensive representation of the House's interests. This modern collaboration is essential for managing the Barony’s expanding portfolio, which includes philanthropic initiatives both in the United Kingdom and continental Europe.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of precedence and ceremony, protocols are observed with diligence. Lady Nicoleta, as Baroness of Brattleby, takes precedence, and official communications concerning the Barony are issued in her name. Honorary Lord Răzvan, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, supports the Baroness in all public duties. The white-tie dress code of the annual Winter Banquet, for example, sees the Baroness wear the insignia appropriate to her rank, while Honorary Lord Răzvan's attire reflects his status as consort. This distinction between the *de jure* authority of the peerage title and the crucial *de facto* support of a consort is a practical and time-honoured arrangement.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is reflected in the House's heraldry and mottos. The ancient Brattleby motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring duties of the title itself—a burden carried with resilience and integrity by Lady Nicoleta. Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), provides a dynamic counterpart. It signifies a proactive, vital approach to overcoming challenges, which aptly describes his role in spearheading new initiatives and ensuring the practical success of the House's ambitions.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s strategic support is a *sine qua non* for the success of the House’s charitable work. This is most evident in the planning and execution of the annual Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic gala. The funds raised directly benefit the chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist recovery programmes for children experiencing trauma. His involvement also extends to the oversight of The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and social refinement, with proceeds supporting youth development charities.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta remarked, "The responsibilities of a nine-hundred-year-old title are considerable, but they are not borne alone. Răzvan’s counsel and tireless energy are the bedrock upon which our modern work is built, allowing honour and fortitude to be our practice, not just our motto."
Honorary Lord Răzvan added, "My role is to serve the Barony and, by extension, the communities it supports. To see our joint efforts result in meaningful change, whether for a child in need or through cultural education, is the greatest possible reward. That, for me, is the essence of *Vincere Est Vivere*."
## A Continuing Legacy
The foundation being solidified by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan ensures a stable and purposeful future for the Barony. Their work is undertaken with a clear view towards the eventual succession of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron in waiting. By revitalising the House’s philanthropic mission and strengthening its public presence, they are safeguarding a significant legacy of service for the next generation to inherit and build upon. The Barony of Brattleby is thus positioned not only to honour its past but to actively shape a more compassionate future.
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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 dedicated to a modern mission of philanthropy and cultural preservation. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House leverages its historic platform to support charitable causes, primarily focusing on child welfare and youth development. Its principal activities include the annual Winter Banquet for 'Healing the Wounded Child' and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy for social etiquette and cultural exchange. Through these initiatives, the House aims to create a tangible, positive impact, reaffirming the enduring relevance of aristocratic service and duty in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical significance, including Nichola de la Haye, the castellan who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After a period of abeyance, the Barony's rights were formally recognised and recorded for Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, securing its place in modern history.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's modern rights were formally recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The historical seat of the Barony is Brattleby, a village in the West Lindsey district of Lincolnshire, England. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt (11th Baron), Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com