# The Enduring Partnership at the Heart of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a commentary clarifying the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. His support for his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is fundamental to the Barony’s modern service.
## The Occasion
In a season marked by renewed public engagement, and following the successful conclusion of the annual Winter Banquet, The Noble House of Brattleby has sought to provide greater clarity on its contemporary structure. From its ancient seat in Lincolnshire, the House affirmed the vital partnership between the Baroness and her consort, a collaboration that underpins the Barony’s extensive philanthropic and cultural responsibilities in the twenty-first century.
This formal statement addresses the nature of the consort’s role, a position of considerable significance that blends modern support with centuries of tradition. It is intended to offer insight into the shared stewardship that allows the Barony, an inheritance of nearly one thousand years, to meet its obligations with purpose and unity.
## Historical Context
The supportive role of a consort is deeply woven into the fabric of the Barony of Brattleby’s nine-century history. While the hereditary title passes through the primary line, the strength of the House has frequently been magnified by the influence and counsel of the titleholder’s spouse. This tradition of partnership is not a modern construct but a continuation of a powerful historical precedent.
This pattern was notably established by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a formidable figure who twice defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Her husband, Gerard de Canville, was a powerful baron in his own right, and their combined influence was a testament to the strength derived from a marital alliance. Later, the Barony passed to H.R.H. John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose marriage to Blanche of Lancaster was one of the great dynastic partnerships of the medieval era, securing him the Dukedom of Lancaster and immense wealth.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as consort to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, therefore stands in a long and distinguished tradition. He provides the steadfast support that enables the Baroness to discharge her duties, echoing the historical alliances that have long secured the legacy and prominence of the Barony.
## Distinguished Company
The heritage of the Barony of Brattleby has been shaped by figures of national and international importance, a reminder of the sphere in which the House has always moved. In assuming their roles, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan honour a lineage of distinguished predecessors, *inter alia*:
* **Nichola de la Haye**, 5th Baroness of Brattleby and Hereditary Sheriff of Lincolnshire, who defended Lincoln against baronial and French forces in 1217. * **His Royal Highness Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster**, the 10th Baron, a revered diplomat, soldier, and founding Knight of the Garter. * **His Royal Highness John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster**, the 11th Baron, a son of King Edward III and ancestor to the Lancastrian kings of England.
The stewardship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan reflects a profound respect for this inheritance and the standard of service it represents.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In public life, the roles of the Baroness and her consort are distinct and complementary, governed by established precedence. As the *suo jure* (in her own right) 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta is the focus of ceremonial duties and holds ultimate authority in all matters pertaining to the Barony. At formal occasions, she takes precedence, and it is in her name that the House undertakes its official functions.
Honorary Lord Răzvan, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, provides essential support. In processions, he walks a step behind the Baroness, a visual representation of his supporting role. At events such as the Annual Winter Banquet, he serves as a gracious host alongside his wife, engaging with dignitaries and ensuring the smooth running of the proceedings. This division of labour is the *sine qua non* of a functioning noble house, allowing for a broader and more effective presence.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The shared duties of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan are reflected in the heraldry and mottos associated with the House. The ancient motto of the Barony of Brattleby, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring values of resilience, integrity, and dutiful service that have guided the House for centuries. It is the bedrock upon which the Barony’s reputation is built.
In concert with this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a dynamic, modern philosophy: a commitment to overcoming societal challenges, achieving tangible results in their philanthropic work, and embracing a life of active purpose. The two mottos symbolise the fusion of ancient honour with a forward-looking determination to effect positive change.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern duty is its philanthropic work, most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the principal fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, the charity *Healing the Wounded Child*. Honorary Lord Răzvan plays a key role in the organisation of this gathering, co-hosting with the Baroness and overseeing guest relations.
*Healing the Wounded Child* is an international organisation providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term support to children whose lives have been affected by armed conflict or acute personal trauma. The funds raised contribute directly to its programmes which, in the past five years, have reached more than three thousand children. The cause was chosen for its focus on protecting the vulnerable and investing in the wellbeing of the next generation, a core tenet of the House’s charitable mission.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “The heritage of Brattleby is a profound responsibility, one that now spans almost a millennium. To share its stewardship with a partner of Răzvan’s character and dedication is a source of immense strength, allowing us to serve the community with a unified purpose.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan added:
> “My role is, and has always been, to support the Baroness and the enduring legacy she represents. It is a distinct privilege to contribute my energy towards ensuring its traditions not only endure but flourish in the modern world. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means overcoming indifference and making a tangible difference where we can.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The partnership between Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan provides a stable and forward-looking foundation for the future of the Barony. Their joint stewardship serves as a guiding example for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring the principles of service and collaboration are passed to the next generation.
Future commitments include the expansion of The Brattleby Club, their etiquette academy in Bucharest, which promotes cultural exchange and professional development. The House remains steadfastly committed to its philanthropic and custodial duties, ensuring the Barony of Brattleby continues to be a force for good, honouring its past while actively shaping its future.
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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 modern expression of aristocratic service. While preserving its unique nine-century heritage, the House focuses on a forward-looking mission of philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and education. Its primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting vulnerable children, principally through its Annual Winter Banquet for the benefit of *Healing the Wounded Child*. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster greater understanding and promote the timeless values of courtesy and honour. The stewardship of the House is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships. The Barony has a distinguished history, with notable predecessors including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; H.R.H. Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, H.R.H. John of Gaunt. After centuries in abeyance, the Barony was formally revived and its uninterrupted succession recognised on behalf of its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. This recognition was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as the holder of the Barony. - Notable past holders include H.R.H. John of Gaunt (11th Baron), son of King Edward III, and Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness). - The motto of The Noble House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com