# A Tradition of Service: The Role of The Lord of Brattleby in the Modern Era
LONDON, 24 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal dispatch clarifying the complementary role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, working in concert with his wife, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to extend the House’s nine-century legacy.
## The Occasion
From its offices in London, the Chancellery of the Noble House of Brattleby has chosen the quiet reflection of the autumnal season to articulate the modern constitution of its leadership. This statement serves to define the duties and purpose of the Lord of Brattleby, a role that complements the hereditary title held by the Baroness Regnant.
The dispatch affirms a marital partnership grounded in mutual support and a shared commitment to the House’s motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. It marks a considered evolution from the barony’s feudal origins, translating the historic obligations of landholding and military command into a contemporary framework of philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and the preservation of a unique English heritage.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has consistently adapted to the currents of English history. Its precedent for dynamic partnership is well-established; one need only look to the 13th century and the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, who twice served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Her husband’s support was a *sine qua non* for the effective exercise of her authority.
This tradition of powerful and complementary roles continued through holders of the title such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and later the 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. In each era, the strength of the barony has been defined not by a single individual but by a steadfast dedication to duty, whether on the battlefield, at Court, or in the administration of the county.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as Lord of Brattleby by marriage continues this long-standing convention, ensuring the House is ably represented across its diverse modern responsibilities.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is vested in its principal members, each with a defined sphere of responsibility.
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right, is the hereditary holder of the peerage as gazetted on 9 September 2022. She serves as the fount of the House’s authority and directs its overall strategic and philanthropic vision.
Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, provides essential support to the Baroness. He assumes particular responsibility for the House’s cultural and educational initiatives, *inter alia*, including the European outreach of The Brattleby Club.
The next generation is represented by their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron of Brattleby. He is being educated in the history and duties of the House, preparing to one day continue its long tradition of service to Crown and community.
## Ceremonial Protocol
Within the order of the House, protocol dictates a clear and harmonious division of duties. The Baroness, as the holder of the peerage, presides over all formal occasions of state and ceremonial events, such as the annual Winter Banquet. All communications and official pronouncements are issued in her name.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role, while supportive, is proactive. He often represents the House at cultural events and in matters of international etiquette, drawing on his leadership of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. His personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live'), informs his dynamic approach to expanding the House’s modern influence and charitable reach.
The established dress code for formal events is white-tie, a standard of ceremonial dignity upheld by the great houses of Europe and a hallmark of the Winter Banquet. This adherence to protocol underscores the House’s respect for tradition and its place within the wider European order.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House of Brattleby is encoded in its heraldry. The baronial coat of arms, granted and confirmed over centuries, represents the history and values of the title. Central to its identity is the motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This ancient principle speaks to the resilience and integrity shown by predecessors from the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, to the present day.
'Fortitude' recalls the military prowess of ancestors who defended the realm, while 'Honour' reflects the solemn duty of stewardship and public service. This duality is the guiding principle of the House’s modern mission.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan, *Vincere Est Vivere*. Translated as 'To Prevail is to Live', it encapsulates a philosophy of active engagement and overcoming challenges in pursuit of a greater good. It signifies the fresh energy and purpose he brings to the ancient barony, ensuring its legacy is not merely preserved but actively advanced.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the House’s modern duty is its commitment to philanthropy. The principal vehicle for this work is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the primary fundraiser for the House’s chosen beneficiary: Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity provides specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or profound loss. The organisation’s work focuses on delivering measurable outcomes, helping its young beneficiaries to rebuild their lives and realise their full potential.
The Noble House of Brattleby was drawn to this cause for its direct and profound impact on the most vulnerable members of society. The support provided through the Winter Banquet enables the charity to expand its clinical services and reach more children in need across the United Kingdom.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint mission, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "The legacy of Brattleby is not a static inheritance but a living duty, passed down through thirty-five generations. My husband’s partnership is indispensable in fulfilling that duty in the modern world. Together, we ensure that the principles of fortitude and honour continue to have practical meaning."
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > "My role is to support the Baroness in her duties and to find new avenues through which our family's principle of service can be expressed. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about overcoming challenges, not just for oneself, but in the service of others. Whether through philanthropy or cultural education, our goal is to make a tangible, positive contribution."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward the future with a clear sense of purpose. Preparations are well underway for the upcoming Annual Winter Banquet, which will once again convene distinguished guests in support of Healing the Wounded Child.
Concurrently, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest will continue its programme of courses in diplomatic and social etiquette, strengthening cultural ties between the United Kingdom and continental Europe. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, remains a quiet priority, ensuring that the next generation is fully prepared to uphold the barony’s nine-hundred-year-old commitment to service.
Through these endeavours, the House demonstrates that honouring the past and shaping the future are one and the same mission.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern continuation of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education. Its central purpose is to translate its historic legacy into impactful modern service, primarily through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child and its patronage of The Brattleby Club, a respected etiquette academy. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House champions the enduring values of duty, integrity, and community stewardship in the 21st century from its ancestral seat in Lincolnshire.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. The Domesday Book of 1086 records its seat at Brattleby, Lincolnshire, and documents its extensive holdings of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye, the great magnate Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. Its continuous line of succession and historical standing were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022, under Notice ID 4158083, affirming its unique place in the fabric of the nation.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s formal recognition is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The 1st Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable predecessors holding 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'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com