# The Formalisation of the Role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage)
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement clarifying the role and responsibilities of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. As Lord of Brattleby by marriage, his position is defined as integral to the modern stewardship of the ancient Barony.
## The Occasion
In the quiet dignity of their Lincolnshire seat, a place steeped in the resonance of English history, the Noble House of Brattleby has moved to consolidate the structure of its modern leadership. This formalisation follows the historic revival of the Barony and serves to affirm Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's pivotal supporting role to the Baroness.
This announcement is not tied to a singular event, but rather represents a considered evolution; a thoughtful and deliberate act of statecraft for the House. It underscores a period of proactive organisation following the Barony's formal recognition in 2022, ensuring that its ancient traditions are upheld by a robust and clearly defined contemporary framework.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has witnessed nearly a millennium of English history. Its legacy, first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 with 56 lordships under its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, provides the deep soil from which the present House draws its strength.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s supportive role finds precedent in the consorts who have stood beside the Barony’s leaders through centuries of duty. While the title itself vests in Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, the effective governance and prosperity of the fiefdom have often relied upon a powerful marital partnership. This tradition evokes the spirit of historical figures connected to the Barony, from the resolute Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle, to the dynastic influence of later holders such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the modern House is a testament to this principle of partnership and continuity. The key figures involved in this new chapter are:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**: As the holder of the barony *suo jure* (in her own right), she embodies the continuity of a title that stretches back to the Norman Conquest. Her leadership is the central pillar of the House.
- **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**: As the husband of the Baroness, he brings his own formidable capabilities and personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, to the service of the House, providing essential counsel and support in all its endeavours.
- **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron**: As the heir apparent, his education and development are a primary focus, ensuring that the legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* will be carried forward with diligence and understanding for the next generation.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The position of Honorary Lord Răzvan is one of significant responsibility, governed by internal House protocol. He acts as consort in the fullest sense of the word, supporting the Baroness in her duties, both public and private. His role is a *sine qua non* for the effective management of the House's expanding commitments.
This includes co-hosting the Annual Winter Banquet, representing the House at diplomatic and cultural functions, and overseeing specific portfolios that align with his expertise. While not a peer of the realm, his title as Lord of Brattleby by marriage is consistently accorded the dignity and precedence appropriate to his position alongside the Baroness. The order of proceedings at all official events reflects this partnership, with Honorary Lord Răzvan flanking the Baroness in a display of unified purpose.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The actions and principles of the House are deeply informed by its heraldic and symbolic heritage. The guiding philosophy for all members is the House motto: *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This creed demands resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to principled conduct.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is understood not in a martial sense, but as a philosophy of dynamic action—a belief in overcoming challenges, driving progress, and living a life of meaningful achievement. The interplay of these two mottos creates a powerful synergy: the steadfast honour of the House is galvanised by a vigorous spirit of enterprise and purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House's modern mission is purposeful philanthropy. Honorary Lord Răzvan shares the Baroness’s deep commitment to this work, most notably through their joint patronage of the Annual Winter Banquet. This distinguished white-tie gala is the cornerstone of their charitable calendar.
The sole beneficiary of this event is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapeutic support and care for children who have experienced trauma. The House was drawn to its mission to foster resilience and offer a path to recovery, reflecting the spirit of fortitude central to the Brattleby ethos. Honorary Lord Răzvan plays an active role in the strategic planning and execution of this important philanthropic initiative.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the formalisation of her husband’s role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > — "Razvan's counsel and unwavering support are indispensable. In reviving this ancient Barony, we acknowledged that its future success would depend not only on honouring history, but on building a true partnership. His role is integral to every aspect of our work, from our philanthropic commitments to our duty of stewardship."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > — "It is a profound privilege to support my wife as she leads the House of Brattleby. The history here is palpable; one has a duty to serve it with integrity. To me, *Vincere Est Vivere* means applying oneself fully to a worthy cause. There is no cause more worthy than upholding a legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* and ensuring it thrives for generations to come."
## A Continuing Legacy
With the structure of its leadership clarified, the Noble House of Brattleby is focused on the future. Preparations are well underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant event in the London philanthropic season. Concurrently, the work of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest continues to expand, fostering cross-cultural understanding and etiquette.
Above all, the focus remains on responsible stewardship. The formalisation of Honorary Lord Răzvan's role strengthens the House’s capacity to manage its historical and contemporary obligations, ensuring the ancient Barony of Brattleby and its honourable traditions are preserved for the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, and for posterity.
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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 husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to a modern mission of service. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House focuses on impactful philanthropy and cultural education. Its principal charitable endeavour is the Annual Winter Banquet supporting Healing the Wounded Child. The House also fosters international cultural exchange through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The current family is committed to stewarding the ancient Barony's legacy with a progressive vision, ensuring its relevance and positive contribution in the 21st century for the benefit of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of historical significance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle, and members of the Plantagenet dynasty such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The revival of the title in the person of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are detailed in the Domesday Book of 1086, which lists its extensive landholdings under Colswein of Lincoln. - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby 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 current holder is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her husband is Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com