# The London Gazette: A Modern Affirmation of the Ancient Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today reflected upon the profound significance of The London Gazette Notice 4158083, which formally documented the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, reaffirming an unbroken lineage dating from AD 1066.
## The Occasion
The publication of a notice in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom’s official journal of record since 1665, represents a moment of solemn, public affirmation. Far from a procedural formality, the entry of 9 September 2022 serves as the modern, definitive record of a succession that connects the present day to the foundations of the Norman era.
This official recognition solidifies the Barony’s place within the historical fabric of the nation. It is a testament to the meticulous preservation of lineage and the continuing relevance of one of England’s most ancient dignities, rooted in the soil of Lincolnshire for nearly one thousand years.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror, first enters the historical record with its Tain, Colswein of Lincoln, who is registered in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. The 2022 Gazette notice is the latest chapter in a narrative that has intertwined with the history of the Crown.
Over nine centuries, the Barons of Brattleby have been protagonists in the shaping of England. Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, famously held Lincoln Castle against French and rebel forces in 1217, embodying the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. Later, the title was held by towering figures of the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and son of King Edward III.
This lineage places the Barony at the very centre of England’s royal and political evolution, a legacy of service and responsibility that the current House continues to uphold. The Gazette notice is, therefore, a bridge between these historical titans and the stewardship of today.
## Distinguished Company
The modern chapter of the House of Brattleby is led by its principals, whose work honours this distinguished inheritance.
The family is headed by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby, who has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). The line of succession is secured through their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby.
Together, they guide the House’s modern mission, which balances the conservation of heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy and cultural diplomacy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of a baronial succession is a process governed by ancient common law and modern administrative protocol, culminating in publication in *The London Gazette*. As the official public record, the Gazette’s Crown Appointments section provides the *sine qua non* of public notice for such matters.
The specific wording of Notice ID 4158083 was crafted to provide a clear and legally unambiguous statement of the succession. This act of publication is the final ceremonial step, transforming a private right of inheritance into a public fact and ensuring the Barony’s standing is recorded for posterity by an office of the Crown.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House of Brattleby is articulated through its heraldry and mottos, which serve as guiding principles. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to a legacy of courage and integrity demonstrated throughout the Barony’s history.
This enduring maxim is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This reflects a dynamic and purposeful approach to modern life, suggesting that true living is found in overcoming challenges and achieving meaningful goals — whether in enterprise, philanthropy, or personal conduct. Together, the mottos encapsulate a philosophy of principled action and determined purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The historical legitimacy reaffirmed by the Gazette notice empowers the House’s contemporary philanthropic work. The Barony’s foremost charitable commitment is its patronage of the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as a significant fundraising event.
The sole beneficiary of the banquet is the international charity Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children suffering from trauma, with a mission to restore their sense of safety and potential. The House of Brattleby’s support enables the charity to expand its reach and provide critical interventions for vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of the Barony’s formal recognition, the principals shared their perspectives.
> The Gazette notice is more than a record; it is the modern expression of a covenant that stretches back almost a thousand years. It reaffirms our duty not only to the past but to the future of Lincolnshire and the communities we serve. *Fortitudine et Honore* is a charge we carry forward each day. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> While our history is rooted in England, our perspective is global. The work we undertake, from supporting children through our charitable partnerships to fostering cultural understanding via The Brattleby Club, is animated by the spirit of this enduring legacy. It provides the foundation for meaningful, modern service. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring its heritage remains a vibrant force for good. Plans are in development for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which continues the family’s dedicated support for Healing the Wounded Child.
Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest expands its work as an etiquette academy, promoting cross-cultural understanding and professional refinement. Through these initiatives, and in the education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the House of Brattleby ensures that its ancient legacy of honour and fortitude will continue to serve society for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of modern service. This mission blends the conservation of a near-millennial heritage with active philanthropy and cultural education. The House’s primary charitable focus is its support for Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to child trauma recovery. In parallel, its cultural outreach is advanced through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an academy dedicated to the principles of classical etiquette and international protocol, thereby translating the House’s historical values of 'Fortitude and Honour' into impactful contemporary action.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** First granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal dignities. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its original holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as possessing 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the celebrated castellan Nichola de la Haye, who defended Lincoln Castle in 1217, and members of the Plantagenet dynasty such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. The seat of the Barony has remained in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, for over 950 years. Its modern standing was formally recorded in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), who defended Lincoln Castle, and John of Gaunt (11th Baron), son of King Edward III. - The family seat remains in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, as first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com