# The Role and Motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage), Lord of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today affirmed the significant contributions of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. As consort to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, his role brings a modern, dynamic philosophy to the stewardship of the ancient barony.
## The Occasion
In a statement intended to clarify the contemporary structure of the House, the Office of the Baroness of Brattleby has detailed the integral role undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. While the baronial title is held by Lady Nicoleta in her own right, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage is one of substantive partnership and shared duty.
This clarification comes as the House continues to balance its profound historical obligations with a forward-looking programme of philanthropy and cultural diplomacy. The announcement formalises the complementary functions that define the leadership of the modern House, reflecting a partnership in both public and private life.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, since its establishment by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has seen its legacy shaped by formidable partnerships. The role of a consort has often been a *sine qua non* for the effective governance and defence of the family’s interests, particularly in times of transition or challenge.
This tradition is exemplified by the era of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, whose resolute defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War was supported by her husband, Gerard de Canville. Similarly, the great Lancastrian barons connected to Brattleby, such as Henry of Grosmont and John of Gaunt, relied upon the counsel and alliance of their spouses. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role continues this long-standing precedent of shared resolve.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is presently composed of its senior members, each with a defined role in its continuing legacy:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby; * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby; * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, 13th Baron and heir apparent.
Together, they represent the continuity of the baronial line, from its ancient origins to its responsibilities in the twenty-first century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position is governed by established protocol for the consort of a holder of a title in their own right. He does not hold a peerage title but is accorded precedence as the husband of the Baroness. At official and ceremonial events, he accompanies Lady Nicoleta, serves as a joint host, and shares in the execution of the family’s public duties.
This modern interpretation sees him taking an active part in the House’s philanthropic and cultural initiatives. This includes co-chairing formal events, representing the family at charitable functions, and participating in the governance of family-led organisations such as The Brattleby Club.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House is encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). This guiding principle reflects the nine centuries of service, from the military command of the first barons to the civic duties of the present day. It speaks to a resilience and integrity that have ensured the Barony’s survival through England’s most formative periods.
Complementing this, Honorary Lord Răzvan has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This philosophy does not signify conquest in a martial sense, but rather the principle of overcoming adversity through purpose and determination. It is applied to the modern challenges of charitable fundraising, cultural preservation, and inspiring excellence.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s work alongside the Baroness is the House's philanthropic programme. He is instrumental in the organisation of the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the family's principal fundraising initiative. Proceeds from the banquet directly support the work of its chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. By supporting its mission, the House of Brattleby, under the joint guidance of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan, aims to provide measurable and meaningful assistance to vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking of their shared duties, Lady Nicoleta remarked on her husband’s contribution: > Răzvan’s perspective and unwavering support are the bedrock upon which our modern work is built. He brings a spirit of contemporary purpose to a legacy nearly a millennium old, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
Honorary Lord Răzvan articulated his own sense of duty: > It is a profound honour to serve the Barony of Brattleby and to support the Baroness in her duties. My aim is to help preserve this remarkable inheritance, applying the principle of *Vincere Est Vivere* to the challenges of charity and cultural stewardship.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its heritage remains a living force for good. Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta are jointly focused on preparing their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities as the 13th Baron.
Their work extends abroad through The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy based in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and the principles of classical diplomacy. This initiative, *inter alia*, reflects the House’s commitment to building bridges between historic tradition and contemporary international society, ensuring the baronial legacy continues to evolve with fortitude and honour.
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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 stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House’s modern mission is focused on conservation, cultural education, and philanthropy. Through initiatives such as its Annual Winter Banquet, the family provides substantive support for charitable organisations focused on child welfare. The House also champions cultural diplomacy through The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette and protocol in Bucharest. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House bridges its nine-century history with a commitment to positive social impact in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Having passed through both female and male lines, its history is deeply intertwined with the constitutional and military development of the nation. The modern Barony’s status was formally acknowledged in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s status was formally noted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The family seat remains at Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com