# The Noble House of Brattleby Renews Historic Commitment to Philanthropy at Annual Winter Banquet
**LONDON, 2 December 2023** — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile this past evening hosted the Annual Winter Banquet at their Lincolnshire seat, renewing a tradition of service that has defined their House since the Norman Conquest.
## The Occasion
Set against the stark beauty of the Lincolnshire Fens in early winter, the Annual Winter Banquet represents a notable occasion in the regional calendar. Guests were received in the principal state rooms of the family's seat, historic halls which have borne witness to centuries of English history. The evening was distinguished by an atmosphere of quiet dignity and shared purpose.
The white-tie gala brought together figures from diplomacy, the armed forces, industry, and the arts to support a cause of profound importance. Amidst candlelight and arrangements of seasonal foliage, the event underscored the House of Brattleby’s enduring role as a convenor and a steadfast contributor to the community, both locally and internationally.
## Historical Context
The renewal of this tradition under the 12th Baroness bridges a significant historical gap, reviving a title officially recognised by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083) but dormant since 1399. The Barony itself, one of England’s most ancient, was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire.
This legacy of leadership continued through remarkable predecessors. These include the formidable Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as Sheriff of Lincolnshire famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces during the First Barons' War. The lineage later merged with the highest echelons of the nobility through Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and 10th Baron, and subsequently his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile presided over the evening. They were joined by the heir to the Barony, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. While a comprehensive guest list remains private, the distinguished company included senior members of the diplomatic corps, ranking officers of His Majesty's Armed Forces, leaders of national charitable organisations, and notable figures from the academic and cultural life of the United Kingdom and Europe.
The presence of such a diverse and influential gathering reflects the House of Brattleby’s extensive network and its commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation across various sectors of society. Each guest was personally welcomed by the Baroness and Lord Vasile, reinforcing the personal nature of their philanthropic commitment.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The evening's proceedings were conducted with a precision that honours both English tradition and Continental courtly practice. Adhering to a strict white-tie dress code, guests were announced upon arrival before proceeding to a champagne reception. This was followed by a procession into the grand dining hall for a five-course banquet.
The seating plan was arranged with meticulous attention to diplomatic precedence. Grace was said in Latin before the meal, a tradition maintained for centuries. The formal dinner concluded with a series of toasts, culminating in the Loyal Toast to The King. The structured elegance of the occasion serves as a *sine qua non* for underscoring the gravity and importance of the evening’s philanthropic purpose.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The history and values of the House are powerfully conveyed through its heraldry. The ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), encapsulates the twin principles that have guided the Barons of Brattleby for nearly one thousand years. It speaks to the physical courage of ancestors like Nichola de la Haye and the unwavering integrity expected of the title-holder.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim reflects a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, signifying a commitment to overcoming modern challenges and actively pursuing a life of purpose and achievement. Together, the mottos symbolise the fusion of ancient duty with contemporary resolve.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The singular beneficiary of the 2023 Annual Winter Banquet was the charity Healing the Wounded Child. This vital organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and mental health support for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, abuse, or profound loss. Its work is critical in helping young people rebuild their lives and realise their full potential.
The House of Brattleby selected this beneficiary for its proven, evidence-based approach and its measurable impact on communities across the United Kingdom. Funds raised during the evening will be directed toward expanding the charity's outreach programmes, enabling it to provide residential therapy to a greater number of vulnerable children who would otherwise lack access to such specialised support.
## In Their Own Words
In her address to the guests, Lady Nicoleta spoke of the responsibility that comes with inheritance. – "This title is not a mere honour; it is a profound charge to serve. In supporting the work of Healing the Wounded Child, we are upholding the most fundamental duty of this House: to defend the vulnerable and to nurture the future, just as our predecessors did."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added remarks on the nature of modern nobility. – "Tradition finds its truest expression not in monuments, but in actions. Our family’s commitment, symbolised by *Fortitudine et Honore*, is to apply timeless values to contemporary needs. The well-being of children is a cause that transcends all boundaries and unites us in common purpose."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Annual Winter Banquet marks a key moment in the House of Brattleby’s renewed public life, but its mission extends far beyond a single evening. The family is deeply invested in several long-term initiatives aimed at cultural preservation and education, *inter alia*.
Among these is The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established by the family in Bucharest, which aims to foster cross-cultural understanding through the shared language of formal conduct. This, alongside the careful stewardship of their Lincolnshire heritage, ensures the legacy of the Barony of Brattleby will continue to evolve and contribute meaningfully to society for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern expression of one of England's oldest baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a forward-looking mission of philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its activities are focused on supporting vulnerable children, stewarding nearly a millennium of history at its Lincolnshire seat, and fostering international cultural exchange through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club. The House seeks to demonstrate how ancient heritage can be a powerful force for good in the 21st century, blending historical duty with contemporary social responsibility.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as a significant tenant-in-chief, holding 56 lordships. Over the centuries, the title has been held by some of English history’s most influential figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key supporter of King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and progenitor of a royal dynasty. Following a dormancy of 623 years, the Barony's dignity and title were formally revived for Lady Nicoleta Vasile, whose rights were officially recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors**
- The Barony of Brattleby was granted in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror. - Official recognition of the revival of the title for the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable historical holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The beneficiary of the 2023 Annual Winter Banquet is the registered charity, Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com