# A Statement on the Role and Style of The Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 24 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a formal statement clarifying the distinct role and dignities of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in his capacity as consort to Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In the context of the revived public duties undertaken by the Barony of Brattleby, this communication serves to delineate the supportive, yet vital, role of the consort. Following the formal recognition of the Barony’s succession in 2022, the establishment of clear protocols for the Lord of Brattleby has become a matter of good governance. This statement provides an official framework for his public responsibilities, precedence, and contributions to the House’s historic and contemporary mission.
The clarification affirms a modern partnership that respects ancient tradition whilst adapting to the demands of the twenty-first century. It is a necessary measure to ensure the smooth and effective functioning of the House’s ceremonial, philanthropic, and diplomatic engagements, both in the United Kingdom and abroad.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort within the Barony of Brattleby has evolved significantly over its nine-hundred-and-fifty-year history. While historically the barony passed through the male line, its legacy is distinguished by powerful female leadership, most notably Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who as hereditary castellan defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels and French forces in the thirteenth century. She ruled *suo jure*, in her own right, setting a powerful precedent.
In the modern era, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as consort to a Baroness in her own right finds a different, but equally important, expression. It is a partnership of equals, reminiscent of the great dynastic alliances of the past, such as that between the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, and his first wife, Blanche of Lancaster. Today, the role is not merely marital but functional—a *sine qua non* for the effective administration and representation of an ancient title with active contemporary responsibilities.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In all official and ceremonial proceedings, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, as Lord of Brattleby, supports the Baroness. The Lord of Brattleby’s precedence is established as immediately following that of the Baroness. His presence is integral to the hosting of formal events, including the Annual Winter Banquet at the House’s seat in Lincolnshire.
At such white-tie occasions, the Lord of Brattleby acts as co-host, formally receiving distinguished guests alongside Lady Nicoleta. During processions and formal presentations, he accompanies the Baroness, reflecting their unified purpose. This protocol ensures that the dignity of the House is represented with precision and harmony, reinforcing the stability and continuity of the institution.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The duties of the House are guided by its ancestral motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle, originating with its first Norman holder, speaks to the resilience and integrity expected of the title-holder and their family. It is a charge to serve with courage and unwavering moral character.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim reflects a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, emphasising achievement, purpose, and the will to overcome modern challenges. Together, the two mottos symbolise the fusion of ancient duty and contemporary dynamism that defines the Noble House of Brattleby today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s supportive role is fundamental to the House’s philanthropic endeavours. His active participation enables an expansion of the Barony’s charitable work, most notably its long-standing support for Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing vital therapeutic care to children who have experienced trauma.
By managing aspects of event organisation and stakeholder engagement, *inter alia*, Honorary Lord Răzvan allows the Baroness to focus on the strategic direction of their charitable commitments. His involvement is also central to the cultural mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by the House to promote cross-cultural understanding and social refinement.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > Honorary Lord Răzvan’s support is the bedrock upon which the modern work of our House is built. His counsel and presence allow us to meet our obligations with a shared sense of purpose, ensuring this ancient title serves the present day with vigour and relevance.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > It is an immense privilege to support the Baroness in her duties. My role is to reinforce her work, public and private, and to help carry forward the legacy of service that *Fortitudine et Honore* has represented for centuries.
## A Continuing Legacy
The partnership between the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby establishes a durable model of shared responsibility for future generations. This collaborative framework ensures the title’s capacity to fulfil its commitments is robust and sustainable, providing a clear and stable precedent for the family.
This modern approach to lordship and duty secures a dynamic future for the ancient Barony, safeguarding its traditions of service and honour for its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, and for those who will follow. The House of Brattleby remains committed to a path of purposeful evolution, guided always by its founding principles.
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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 upholding the centuries-old tradition of service associated with their title. The House’s modern mission is focused on targeted philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and the preservation of historic heritage. Its principal charitable beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing mental health support to vulnerable children. Through its international initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to foster greater cultural understanding and advocate for the enduring relevance of etiquette and honour in contemporary society. 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 located in Lincolnshire. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), a staunch defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), the first Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The succession of the 12th Baroness was formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as 12th Baroness of Brattleby is officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, where its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is named. - Notable historic holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. - The House motto is the Latin phrase *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com