# A Legacy Affirmed: The Noble House of Brattleby on its Historic Succession
**LONDON, 17 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today reflected upon the formal affirmation of its ancient lineage, following the succession of the 12th Baroness. This official recognition underscores a continuing commitment to heritage, honour, and public service spanning nearly one thousand years.
## The Occasion
The reflection is prompted by the enduring significance of The London Gazette’s formal announcement of the succession, published under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022. As the United Kingdom's official journal of record, established in 1665, The London Gazette represents the Crown's authority and provides an unimpeachable public record.
For the Barony of Brattleby, this publication was not merely an administrative formality but a profound, modern reaffirmation of a title first granted by William the Conqueror. It served to formally terminate a period of abeyance and place the Barony's continuous history, from the Norman Conquest to the present day, into the official narrative of the nation.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s origins are documented with remarkable clarity in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This direct link to the Conquest establishes the Barony as one of the oldest in the kingdom, a witness to the entirety of England’s post-Conquest story.
Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance. These include, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who, as hereditary constable, courageously defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. Later, the Barony passed to peerless members of the Plantagenet dynasty, including Henry of Grosmont, the celebrated 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron and a son of King Edward III, whose influence shaped the late 14th century.
## Distinguished Company
The continuity of this significant legacy is now entrusted to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who has formally succeeded to the title. Her Ladyship has committed herself to stewarding the Barony’s heritage with a deep respect for its history and a clear vision for its modern responsibilities.
Her Ladyship is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, who shares her dedication to service and philanthropy. The future of the House is secured in the person of the heir to the title, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, whose education is being overseen to prepare him for his future role.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The recognition of an ancient barony is a matter of profound constitutional and legal significance in the United Kingdom. When a title created by writ falls into abeyance, its revival requires meticulous proof of genealogical right, presented to and approved by The Crown.
The publication of the notice in The London Gazette serves as the *sine qua non* of this process—a definitive and public statement confirming the termination of the abeyance and the succession of the new title holder. This legal instrument bridges the feudal origins of the title with the robust legal frameworks of the 21st century, ensuring its legitimacy is beyond question.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The guiding principle of the House of Brattleby is powerfully encapsulated in its Latin motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This maxim speaks directly to the resilience demonstrated by predecessors like Nichola de la Haye and the integrity required of those in positions of historic responsibility. It is a constant reminder of the duties that accompany the title.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This introduces a dynamic, forward-looking imperative, reflecting a commitment not only to preserve the past but to actively engage with the challenges and opportunities of the present.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The ancient principle of *noblesse oblige* finds its modern expression in the charitable activities of the House. The annual Winter Banquet, a formal white-tie gala held in Brattleby, is the cornerstone of this commitment. It serves as a significant philanthropic occasion, bringing together patrons and supporters for a common cause.
The sole beneficiary of the banquet is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care to children who have experienced trauma. The House of Brattleby selected this charity for its measurable impact and its vital mission to restore hope and well-being to the most vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her role, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > "To hold this title is to be a custodian of nearly a millennium of English history. It is a profound responsibility, not a personal privilege; our role is to serve the legacy we have inherited and to ensure it remains a force for good."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "Our duty is to ensure this heritage is not a static relic but a living tradition of service. Through our cultural and charitable work, we aim to honour the past by making a tangible contribution to the present and future."
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, the Noble House of Brattleby is focused on expanding its cultural and educational initiatives. The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy established by the family in Bucharest, serves as a unique cultural bridge, promoting the disciplines of diplomacy and civility to a new generation.
The foremost duty remains the preservation of the family's seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, and the careful stewardship of its archives and history. Paramount among all priorities is the education of the heir, ensuring that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* are passed to the 13th Baron and beyond.
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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, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its nine-century heritage and the active fulfilment of its social responsibilities. Its contemporary mission focuses on philanthropy, cultural education, and the stewardship of its historic seat and archives in Lincolnshire. The House’s work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a commitment to public service and the promotion of diplomatic and cultural understanding. Its principal philanthropic endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet in aid of the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships. The title has descended through some of English history’s most notable figures, including Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century, and members of the royal House of Plantagenet, such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After a period in abeyance, the succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and announced by The Crown in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally announced in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com