# A Statement on the Role and Responsibilities of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage)
LONDON, 20 October 2023 — The Office of the Baron of Brattleby has today issued a statement to articulate the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. As consort to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Honorary Lord Răzvan provides foundational support to the House’s historic duties and charitable endeavours.
## The Occasion
Following the formal recognition of the Barony’s revival in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, The Noble House of Brattleby has re-established its public-facing duties. In response to increasing interest from both civic bodies and the public, this statement serves to clarify the modern structure of the House and the integral, supportive role of the Lord of Brattleby.
The revitalisation of one of England’s most ancient baronies, with its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, necessitates a clear understanding of the complementary responsibilities held by the Baroness and her consort. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position is one of collaboration and counsel, ensuring the House operates with unity of purpose as it navigates its contemporary obligations.
## Historical Context
The tradition of marital partnership strengthening the Barony of Brattleby is a theme that recurs throughout its 957-year history. Since its establishment in AD 1066 under Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron, the resilience of the House has often depended on the combined strengths of the baron and their consort. The role of the consort has historically been a *sine qua non* for the effective administration of feudal estates and duties.
This precedent is notably exemplified by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, whose command of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War was a testament to formidable personal and strategic capacity. Later, the union of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby, and Blanche of Lancaster was one of the most powerful alliances of the 14th century, merging vast territories and influence. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s modern role finds its roots in this long-standing tradition of shared stewardship.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is constituted by the following principals:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, who holds the title *suo jure* (in her own right). * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, who holds his title *jure uxoris* (by right of his wife). * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, heir to the Barony and styled the 13th Baron.
In all official capacities, Lady Nicoleta assumes precedence as the holder of the hereditary title. Honorary Lord Răzvan supports the Baroness in her duties and jointly represents the House at social, cultural, and philanthropic functions.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The protocol governing Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position reflects established European custom. As consort, he supports the Baroness, who is the fount of the title’s authority. He does not hold a place in the line of succession, which is secured by the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru.
In correspondence and at formal events, Honorary Lord Răzvan is designated as the Lord of Brattleby to signify his status and integral role within the House. During ceremonial proceedings, he is seated and presented in a manner that denotes his position as consort to the Baroness, reinforcing the stability and continuity of the lineage. This arrangement ensures that historical precedent is honoured while accommodating the practical requirements of a modern noble house.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The dual mottos of the House reflect its blend of ancient duty and modern dynamism. The Barony’s own motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the near-millennium of service rendered by the Barons of Brattleby, from the fields of battle to the courts of kings. It underpins the family’s enduring commitment to public service and integrity.
In counterpoint, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), symbolises the enterprising and forward-looking spirit he contributes. It signifies a philosophy of embracing challenges, driving progress, and ensuring that the ancient house does not merely survive, but actively thrives in the 21st century. Together, the mottos represent the synthesis of tradition and progress that defines the modern House of Brattleby.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House’s joint endeavours is its philanthropic work. Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta are patrons of the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraising initiative for the charity *Healing the Wounded Child*. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children suffering from trauma and profound loss.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan takes a leading interest in the development of The Brattleby Club. Located in Bucharest, this etiquette academy promotes cross-cultural understanding and professional development, teaching the finer points of diplomatic and social protocol to a new generation of European leaders. This initiative, *inter alia*, reflects the House’s commitment to building cultural bridges.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, the Baroness and her consort offered their perspectives:
> The legacy of Brattleby is one of unwavering service to Crown and country, a duty I am profoundly honoured to carry forward. To do so with Răzvan by my side provides a strength and contemporary perspective that is invaluable to the House’s mission. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is a distinct privilege to support the Baroness in her work and to contribute to this extraordinary nine-century history. My focus is on helping to ensure this great legacy not only endures but thrives, adapting and overcoming new challenges for the benefit of generations to come. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to support Lady Nicoleta in the management of the family’s historic seat and its associated responsibilities in Lincolnshire. He will play a key role in the strategic oversight of The Brattleby Club and in preparations for the upcoming Annual Winter Banquet.
The shared objective of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is to serve as diligent custodians of the Barony’s heritage. Their work today lays the groundwork for the eventual succession of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring that the Noble House of Brattleby continues to serve with *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 one of England's oldest Norman baronies. The House’s modern mission is to bridge its profound historical legacy with a dynamic, forward-looking commitment to public service. Its activities are focused on cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Key initiatives include the Annual Winter Banquet benefiting the children's charity *Healing the Wounded Child* and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy in Bucharest. The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a guiding principle of dutiful service that has defined the family for over nine centuries.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. The *Domesday Book* of 1086 records its first holder possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over the centuries, the title has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), a key defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). After a period of dormancy, the Barony was revived, with its modern standing and the rights of the 12th Baroness formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - The Barony was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com