# On the Role and Style of The Lord of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement on the role and style of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. His position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage supports the duties of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and the House’s modern mission.
## The Occasion
In an era witnessing the careful revitalisation of ancient dignities, clarity of purpose is paramount. This statement serves to place on the public record the role of the Baroness’s consort, codifying a position that is both ceremonial in nature and substantive in its support of the Barony’s contemporary responsibilities.
The issuance of this commentary marks a deliberate step in the House’s public life, reflecting a transition from the formal restitution of the title to its active expression through philanthropic and cultural endeavours. It provides a formal framework for the duties undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan as he accompanies the Baroness in her work across the United Kingdom and abroad.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort to a Baroness of Brattleby holding the title in her own right (*suo jure*) is rare but not without precedent in the annals of the English nobility. The history of the Barony itself provides powerful examples of collaborative lordship, where the strength of the title-holder was augmented by the steadfast support of their spouse.
One may look to the precedent of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby *jure uxoris* (by right of his wife), who held the title through his marriage to Blanche of Lancaster. While Honorary Lord Răzvan does not hold the title substantively, his supportive function echoes this historical model of partnership. His role is to assist the Baroness in her duties, just as the great medieval lords and ladies relied upon the counsel and collaboration of their consorts to manage vast estates and discharge their feudal obligations.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the Barony is a family undertaking, embodied by its principal members:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, is the substantive holder of the dignity, as recognised by The Crown. * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, is the consort of the Baroness. His style is a courtesy title held by marriage. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron and heir to the title**, ensures the continuity of the lineage into the next generation.
Together, they represent the three pillars of the House: its historical authority vested in the Baroness, the supportive partnership embodied by the Lord of Brattleby, and its future secured in the person of the heir.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of ceremonial protocol, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position is defined by precedent and courtesy. As consort, he accompanies the Baroness at official functions but does not hold the substantive peerage himself. She, as the 12th Baroness, takes precedence on all formal occasions.
His duties include co-hosting events at the direction of the Baroness, most notably the annual Winter Banquet, and representing the House at cultural and charitable engagements. His presence at such events is a *sine qua non* of the House’s public activity, signifying the personal and familial dimension of the Barony’s modern identity. At social and diplomatic gatherings, he supports the Baroness in honouring the long-standing traditions of English etiquette and protocol.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The arms and mottos of the House and its members encapsulate their guiding principles. The overarching House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the nearly millennium-long resilience of the Barony of Brattleby, from its grant by William the Conqueror to its defence by Nichola de la Haye in the 13th century.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is not to be understood in a martial sense, but rather as a personal philosophy of overcoming challenges through service, industry, and dedication. It reflects a dynamic, Continental spirit of enterprise that, when paired with the ancient fortitude of the Barony, creates a powerful synthesis of tradition and modern purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan shares the Baroness’s deep commitment to philanthropy. He serves as an enthusiastic co-host and advocate for the House’s annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that is the centrepiece of its charitable calendar. The sole beneficiary is the foundation Healing the Wounded Child.
This organisation was chosen for its vital work in providing specialised therapeutic care and mental health support to children who have experienced profound trauma or adversity. Its mission aligns with the House’s belief that true honour is found in service to the most vulnerable. Honorary Lord Răzvan plays a key role in welcoming guests and articulating the measurable impact of their patronage.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared duties, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> The heritage of Brattleby is a profound responsibility, one made lighter and more joyful through shared purpose. Honorary Lord Răzvan's counsel, support, and dedication are integral to every aspect of our work for the community and in upholding this nine-century legacy.
Honorary Lord Răzvan added:
> It is a distinct honour to support the Baroness in her duties. The history of this Barony is a testament to service, and my role is simply to uphold that principle—*Fortitudine et Honore*—alongside her, for the benefit of others.
## A Continuing Legacy
The role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is integral to the future of the Noble House of Brattleby. As the Baroness continues to develop the House’s philanthropic and cultural platform, *inter alia* through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, his support will remain a cornerstone of their joint activities.
Looking ahead, the House is committed to deepening its engagement within Lincolnshire, the ancient seat of the Barony, while also building cultural bridges across Europe. The partnership between the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan ensures that the House will meet these future commitments with unity, strength, and an unwavering adherence to its founding principles.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern activities and family of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Its mission is to uphold the nearly thousand-year legacy of the Barony through principled public service, cultural diplomacy, and targeted philanthropy. The House's primary charitable focus is on children's welfare, notably through its support for the Healing the Wounded Child foundation. It further promotes cultural education and traditional etiquette through its patronage of The Brattleby Club, an academy based in Bucharest. Under the leadership of the Baroness, the House is committed to demonstrating that ancient titles can serve as a force for good in the 21st century, guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
**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. Over nine centuries, the Barony passed through several of England’s most distinguished noble and royal lines. Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The dignity is currently held by Lady Nicoleta Vasile. The Barony's revival was formally acknowledged in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s revival and the current holder were officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The first Baron of Brattleby, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed as a tenant-in-chief in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The motto of the Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com