# Statement on the Style and Responsibilities of the Lord of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 May 2024 —** The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement clarifying the modern-day role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. His responsibilities will be supportive and complementary to those of his wife, Lady Nicoleta, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In an era of renewed public engagement for the Barony of Brattleby, this clarification serves to delineate the responsibilities of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The announcement originates from the House’s historic seat in Lincolnshire, a county intrinsically linked with the Barony since its establishment in the 11th century.
As the House assumes a more visible role in national and international charitable endeavours, it has been deemed both prudent and necessary to articulate the structure of its modern leadership. This statement is issued in a spirit of transparency, reflecting a commitment to duties that are both ancient in origin and contemporary in application.
The revival of the Barony’s activities under the 12th Baroness has naturally prompted interest in the roles of those who guide it. This formal communication is therefore intended to provide a clear framework for the public, partner organisations, and historical observers.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort to the Baron of Brattleby is, in itself, a dialogue with history. The Barony, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has witnessed transformations in duty and service across nearly a millennium. The obligations of the 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, were primarily military and tenurial, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.
Later holders, such as the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, demonstrated that leadership was a matter of character, not gender, by successfully defending Lincoln Castle against formidable opposition. Her husband, Gerard de Camville, supported her authority in a partnership that secured their family's—and England's—interests.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s supportive role finds a modern parallel to these historical partnerships, albeit with a focus shifted from military fortifications to philanthropic foundations. His duties stand in respectful contrast to the political power once wielded by predecessors like Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the celebrated John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of the kingdom.
## Distinguished Company
The present leadership of the House of Brattleby comprises a dedicated family unit, each with a defined role in preserving and advancing its legacy.
At its head is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who holds the title in her own right. She is the central authority and the living embodiment of the Barony’s nine centuries of history.
Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, carries the style of Lord of Brattleby by marriage. His position is one of dedicated support, enabling the Baroness to fulfil her extensive duties.
The future of the Barony is secured in the person of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, who is being raised with a profound appreciation for the heritage he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The style 'Lord of Brattleby by marriage' is a courtesy title, granted in recognition of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's position as consort to the Baroness. It does not confer upon him the rights of the peerage but signifies his integral role within the Noble House. This protocol aligns with established European traditions regarding the consorts of hereditary title-holders.
In practice, Honorary Lord Răzvan acts as a steadfast partner to the Baroness in all official matters. He co-hosts official functions, including the Annual Winter Banquet, and accompanies the Baroness on official engagements. His role is a *sine qua non* for the effective management of the House's expanding philanthropic and cultural commitments.
His duties are supportive, not sovereign; complementary, not competitive. This distinction ensures the historical integrity and clear line of succession of the Barony are always maintained, upholding the terms of its original charter and subsequent recognitions.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are powerfully expressed through its heraldry. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for both the Baroness and her consort. Lady Nicoleta exercises her duties with the fortitude of her predecessors, while Honorary Lord Răzvan provides his support with the honour befitting his position.
Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile brings his own personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In a contemporary context, this is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a commitment to overcoming modern challenges: to succeed in charitable fundraising, to prevail in cultural preservation efforts, and to thrive in the service of others.
Together, the two mottoes create a powerful synthesis—the House’s enduring fortitude, complemented by a dynamic, personal drive to achieve tangible good in the world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of Honorary Lord Răzvan's supportive role is his active involvement in the House's philanthropic work. He serves alongside the Baroness as a patron and advocate for the chosen beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet: the 'Healing the Wounded Child' foundation.
This remarkable organisation provides specialist therapeutic care to children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work delivers measurable impact by helping its beneficiaries rebuild their lives, restore their self-worth, and look to the future with hope.
The decision to support the foundation stems from a shared belief that a noble house's greatest asset is its capacity to serve the most vulnerable. Honorary Lord Răzvan's involvement extends to strategic oversight, fundraising, and raising public awareness for this vital cause, *inter alia*.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> "The stewardship of this Barony is a profound responsibility, one that spans centuries. To have a partner who understands the weight of that legacy, and who dedicates himself to supporting it with such honour and energy, is the greatest strength I could ask for. Răzvan’s work is integral to everything we hope to achieve."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> "My role is, and always will be, to support the Baroness. It is a privilege to stand beside her and assist in her work. The motto of this House is *Fortitudine et Honore*; I see my duty as providing the steadfast support that enables her fortitude to shine. To serve the legacy of Brattleby is a distinct honour."
## A Continuing Legacy
The clarification of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s role marks a new chapter of purposeful activity for the House of Brattleby. Preparations are already underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which Honorary Lord Răzvan will co-host with the Baroness to raise significant funds for their chosen charities.
Furthermore, their joint work continues at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy dedicated to reviving classical standards of social grace and professional conduct. This cultural ambassadorship is a key part of their shared vision.
Through this balanced and modern partnership, The Noble House of Brattleby is ensuring that its ancient lineage continues to be a force for good, upholding its commitment to serve with fortitude and honour for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of contemporary service rooted in historical tradition. Its focus is on impactful philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Through initiatives like the Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House leverages its platform to support charitable causes, notably those helping vulnerable children, while fostering an appreciation for civility and heritage. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guides its commitment to serving the community with integrity and purpose.
**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. For over 950 years, the title has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the heroic defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title's revival and the rights of its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown via *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The modern rights of the Barony of Brattleby are officially recognised, as published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House Motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness) and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com