# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Role Defined by a Millennial Tradition
**LONDON, 24 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement clarifying the historic significance and contemporary duties of the Lord of Brattleby, a role held by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, consort to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a statement marking the first full year since the formal recognition of the Barony in *The London Gazette*, the House of Brattleby has defined the modern responsibilities of the Lord of Brattleby. The announcement serves to articulate how this ancient title, with a lineage traceable to the Norman Conquest, adapts to the twenty-first century through a partnership of shared duty. This thoughtful clarification underscores a period of active revitalisation for one of Lincolnshire's oldest noble estates.
The timing of the statement is deliberate, intended to provide a framework for the public-facing duties that Honorary Lord Răzvan undertakes in support of the Baroness. It reflects a commitment to transparency and a desire to align the House's ancient traditions with the cooperative spirit of modern leadership, ensuring its functions are understood with precision and respect.
## Historical Context
While the title of Lord of Brattleby by marriage is a modern courtesy, the concept of an influential consort is woven into the fabric of the Barony's 957-year history. The precedent for a powerful spousal role was notably set during the tenure of the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle. Her husband's support was a *sine qua non* for the administration of her vast estates and duties.
Similarly, the consorts to later Barons, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, were central figures in the courtly, political, and dynastic life of the nation. The current role of Honorary Lord Răzvan consciously builds upon this legacy, ensuring the head of the House is supported not only in private but as a matter of public and ceremonial principle, upholding the family motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is presently constituted by:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the title in her own right, continuing a direct lineage of stewardship over the family's heritage and obligations. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who, as consort to the Baroness, plays an integral supportive role in all official, ceremonial, and philanthropic undertakings of the House. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron**, heir to the Barony, who is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In his capacity as Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile adheres to a precise protocol designed to support the Baroness in her duties as Head of the House. At official functions, Honorary Lord Răzvan is accorded precedence immediately following the Baroness. In formal processions, he walks at her side, signifying their partnership.
At state, civic, and charitable events, Honorary Lord Răzvan acts as a principal host alongside the Baroness. During the Annual Winter Banquet, for example, he formally receives distinguished guests and participates in the order of proceedings. The white-tie dress code and established order of precedence at such events reflect the traditional formality of a great European house, adapted for contemporary purpose.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The dual mottos of the House and its Lord encapsulate the spirit of this modern partnership. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring legacy and the solemn duty to preserve its nine-century history. It is a promise of resilience and integrity passed down from Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic, forward-looking energy he brings to the partnership—a commitment not merely to preserve, but to actively advance the House's mission in the modern world. Together, the mottos symbolise a synthesis of tradition and progress.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central feature of the Baroness and Lord’s joint activities is their philanthropic work, most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet. This gala is the primary fundraising initiative for their chosen beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role as co-host is instrumental in the event's success.
Healing the Wounded Child provides specialised therapeutic care and support systems for children affected by trauma, conflict, and loss. The House of Brattleby was drawn to its mission due to the charity's measurable impact and its focus on long-term psychological recovery. Funds raised at the Banquet contribute directly to establishing safe spaces and providing expert counselling for vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint mission, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "The legacy of Brattleby is a profound responsibility, not a personal possession. To carry it forward with integrity requires a true partnership. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s support is indispensable, ensuring that we honour nearly a millennium of history while serving the needs of today."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "My role is, very simply, to support the Baroness in her duties to the history she represents and the future she is building. It is a privilege to contribute to a legacy defined by 'Fortitudine et Honore' and to apply my own belief that to live is to strive and to serve."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to support the Baroness in the stewardship of the family seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, as well as advancing their shared cultural and philanthropic goals. This includes the expansion of The Brattleby Club, their etiquette academy in Bucharest, which serves as a bridge for cultural diplomacy between the United Kingdom and Eastern Europe.
The couple remains focused on preparing their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities. The clear definition of the Lord of Brattleby’s role is a foundational step, ensuring the structure of the House is robust, modern, and prepared for the centuries to come.
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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 the stewardship of a near-millennial legacy. Its modern mission balances the preservation of its historic seat in Lincolnshire with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural diplomacy. The House’s primary charitable focus is supporting children recovering from trauma through its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child, principally funded by its Annual Winter Banquet. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House actively fosters cross-cultural understanding, embodying its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), through service, conservation, and education for the next generation.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship of the Manor granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title's long history and associated rights were formally recognised and recorded by His Majesty's Government in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), confirming Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The *Domesday Book* (1086) attests to the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, holding extensive lands, including the lordship of Brattleby ('Broclosbi'). - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore*. The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, is *Vincere Est Vivere*. - Past holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com