# The Enduring Role of Consort at The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today articulated the modern responsibilities of the Lord of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The statement highlights the consort’s vital supportive role as the House prepares for its annual season of philanthropic and cultural commitments.
## The Occasion
As autumn’s final colours grace the ancient parklands of Lincolnshire, preparations are underway at the traditional seat of the Barony of Brattleby. This period heralds the approach of the House’s annual Winter Banquet, a significant event in the regional calendar that reaffirms the family’s enduring connection to the county and its community.
The statement concerning the role of the Lord Consort has been issued in this context, clarifying the essential partnership between Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile and his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. It underscores a shared commitment to the duties incumbent upon a title stretching back nearly a millennium.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has seen its leadership and influence shaped by both barons and their consorts. The original Domesday Book entry of 1086 records its lands under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Yet the history of the Barony is not solely a male-line narrative; it is one of formidable partnerships.
This tradition is exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders. Later, the title passed through the Plantagenet line to figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder Knight of the Garter, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The latter held the barony *jure uxoris*, by right of his wife, demonstrating a long-established precedent for the significance of the marital union in the stewardship of the title. In this, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position is part of a nine-hundred-year continuity.
## Distinguished Company
The Annual Winter Banquet, the proceeds of which are dedicated to charitable causes, is traditionally attended by a distinguished company. Guests typically include Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lincolnshire, the High Sheriff of the county, and senior clergy from Lincoln Cathedral.
Also present are representatives from the diplomatic corps, members of both Houses of Parliament, and leading figures from academia and the third sector. This gathering reflects the House of Brattleby’s role as a convenor, bringing together diverse spheres of influence in support of its philanthropic and cultural objectives.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In accordance with tradition, the banquet adheres to a strict ceremonial protocol. The evening is a white-tie occasion, requiring gentlemen to wear an evening tailcoat with a white bow tie and ladies to wear full-length gowns, with decorations and tiaras where appropriate.
Guests are received by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan, Lord of Brattleby. Following a reception, a formal procession leads into the dining hall, where seating is arranged according to a careful order of precedence. The Lord of Brattleby, in his capacity as co-host, plays an integral part in the proceedings, ensuring the smooth running of the evening and engaging with guests on behalf of the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The duties of the House are guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle signifies a commitment to meeting responsibilities with resilience and unwavering integrity, a standard set by predecessors who navigated civil wars and defended the realm.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements this tradition with a philosophy of proactive engagement. It speaks not of military conquest, but of living with purpose and overcoming challenges in the service of a greater cause—a modern interpretation of the consort's role as an active and vital supporter.
## Philanthropic Purpose
For many years, the principal beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet has been Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The organisation delivers programmes, *inter alia*, in therapeutic arts and play-based counselling, enabling vulnerable children to process their experiences and build a foundation for a healthier future. Proceeds from the banquet directly fund these services, allowing the charity to extend its reach and reduce waiting lists for children in critical need across the region.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the nature of their shared responsibilities, the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby offered their perspectives.
> The strength of this Barony, through nine hundred years of service to the Crown and country, has always rested on shared purpose. Răzvan’s support is the *sine qua non* of our modern endeavours, allowing us to honour our history while meeting the needs of today. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> My role is one of active support for the Baroness and the duties her title entails. It is about applying the principle of *Vincere Est Vivere*—to live with purpose—in service to the historic responsibilities of the Barony and its commitment to the community. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby extends beyond its philanthropic efforts in the United Kingdom. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest, the family promotes cultural diplomacy and fosters stronger ties between Britain and Romania.
These contemporary activities are undertaken with a profound sense of stewardship. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are dedicated to preserving the Barony's rich heritage and archives for their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* continues for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of charitable service, cultural preservation, and education. Its activities are guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s primary philanthropic focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster international understanding. The family is dedicated to the responsible stewardship of its nine-century heritage for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring its relevance in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founding Knight of the Garter; and John of Gaunt, father of King Henry IV. The modern rights to the barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby's recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron/Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Annual Winter Banquet is a white-tie philanthropic gala with its primary beneficiary being the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com