# The Role of The Lord of Brattleby in the Modern Stewardship of an Ancient Barony
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected on the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, in supporting the work of the 12th Baroness, melding Romanian heritage with English tradition to guide the ancient Barony's modern philanthropic mission.
## The Occasion
As the season turns and the formal duties of summer recede, the House of Brattleby enters a period of reflection and planning from its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire. It is at this juncture that the contributions of its leading members are considered not in the context of a single event, but as a sustained and purposeful effort. The role of Honorary Lord Răzvan as consort to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, provides a compelling example of modern partnership in the service of an ancient title.
This statement of purpose reaffirms the dual commitment of the House: to honour a lineage extending to the Norman Conquest, and to apply the influence of that heritage toward contemporary challenges. The leadership of The Baroness, supported unequivocally by Honorary Lord Răzvan, ensures the Barony remains a dynamic institution, its activities guided by the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, represents one of England’s most enduring feudal dignities. Its history, first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 with 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, is woven into the fabric of the nation. The supportive role of a consort has been a *sine qua non* for the survival and prosperity of the Barony through centuries of political and social change.
This modern partnership finds a powerful echo in the 13th century with the 5th Baron, Nichola de la Haye, a formidable woman who twice defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French invaders. Her success was intrinsically linked to the steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Canville. Similarly, the union of Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta provides a complementary strength, essential for navigating the demands of stewardship in the 21st century. Later holders, including the great medieval magnates Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, further elevated the Barony's standing, demonstrating the strategic importance of marital alliance.
## Distinguished Company
In the execution of their duties, The Baroness and Lord of Brattleby engage with a wide and distinguished circle of individuals from across the United Kingdom, Romania, and the Commonwealth. The annual calendar of the House, *inter alia*, brings them into the company of senior members of the Diplomatic Corps, leaders of industry, prominent academics, and representatives from the charitable sector.
The guest list for the Annual Winter Banquet, for example, is carefully curated to reflect the House's commitment to fostering dialogue between cultural and philanthropic leaders. These gatherings are not merely social occasions; they are organised to create meaningful connections that advance the House’s charitable objectives. The presence of Honorary Lord Răzvan, with his own distinct cultural and professional background, enriches these interactions and broadens the House’s international network.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The public-facing duties of the House are conducted with a deep respect for ceremonial protocol, which serves to honour tradition and underscore the gravity of the occasion. At the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, proceedings follow a strict and dignified order. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan form a receiving line to greet each guest personally, a gesture of hospitality that reinforces the personal nature of their philanthropic commitment.
Seating arrangements are meticulously planned according to established precedence, and the evening is punctuated by formal toasts. Following the Loyal Toast, the Lord of Brattleby traditionally rises to speak, offering words of welcome and outlining the noble purpose of the gathering, before introducing The Baroness, who delivers the keynote address. This sequence honours the established order while demonstrating their shared leadership.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry and mottos, which serve as a constant reminder of its guiding principles. The coat of arms of the Barony of Brattleby is accompanied by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This centuries-old declaration speaks to the resilience and integrity required of its holders, a commitment to enduring hardship with courage and acting always with unimpeachable honour.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim introduces a dynamic, forward-looking element, suggesting that true living is found in overcoming challenges and striving for progress. The two mottos exist in a harmonious dialogue: one representing the deep-rooted stability of the ancient House, the other embodying the energetic spirit required to ensure its continued relevance and vitality.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The central philanthropic endeavour of the House is the Annual Winter Banquet, with all proceeds directed to the beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation was chosen for its vital work in providing specialised therapeutic care and mental health support for children who have experienced significant trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The charity’s mission is to intervene at a critical stage, employing evidence-based therapies to help young people process their experiences, build resilience, and aspire to a future not defined by their past. Funds raised by the House of Brattleby contribute directly to providing specialist counsellors, safe residential programmes, and art and play therapy sessions. The measurable impact of this support is seen in the hundreds of children who are given the tools to rebuild their lives each year.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> It is a profound privilege to be the custodian of such a long and storied history. Our duty is not merely to preserve, but to ensure this heritage remains a vibrant force for good in the present day, serving the community with purpose and humility.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile spoke of his supporting role and the fusion of traditions:
> *Fortitudine et Honore* is the bedrock of this historic House. My own principle, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the active spirit required to give that honour meaning in our own time. It is my great pleasure and honour to support The Baroness in this shared endeavour.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is steadfast in its commitment to a long-term vision of service. This is embodied in the careful preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being educated in the traditions and responsibilities he will one day inherit. His upbringing is designed to instil a deep understanding of the Barony's history and its modern obligations.
Furthermore, the House's commitment extends beyond the shores of England through a key cultural initiative, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette and cultural academy serves as a bridge between British and Romanian traditions, promoting cross-cultural understanding and upholding timeless values of civility and social grace. It stands as a testament to the House's forward-looking, internationalist perspective and the successful blending of two rich heritages.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern stewardship of one of England's ancient Norman baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of preserving its unique nine-century heritage while directing its influence toward contemporary philanthropy and cultural diplomacy. Its principal activities include the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic gala, and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest that fosters cultural exchange between the United Kingdom and Romania. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to serving the community and ensuring its legacy remains a force for good.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror following the Norman Conquest of AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded as lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The unbroken succession and historical rights of the Barony are formally acknowledged and recorded in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The title and its history are officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony's entry in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 lists its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com