# The Role and Style of the Lord of Brattleby in the Modern Era
**LONDON, 21 May 2024** — The Office of the Baron and Baroness of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who as consort provides steadfast support to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in her duties.
## The Occasion
In the period following the formal recognition of the succession by The Crown, as gazetted on 9 September 2022, there has been considerable public interest in the leadership of The Noble House of Brattleby. This statement serves to articulate the modern, collaborative nature of the partnership between the Baroness and the Lord of Brattleby. It is issued from the family’s offices in London to affirm a shared commitment to the duties incumbent upon this ancient barony as it engages with the twenty-first century.
The revival of the Barony’s public-facing duties has necessitated a clear definition of roles. This ensures that the dignity of the title is upheld while reflecting a contemporary understanding of partnership and mutual support, which are central to the work of the current generation.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history interwoven with the fabric of England itself. While the title is held by Lady Nicoleta in her own right, the supportive role of a consort is a well-established precedent. One finds echoes of this in the powerful alliances formed by previous holders of the title, such as the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt, whose marriage to Blanche of Lancaster was a union of immense political and dynastic importance.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position continues this tradition of strength through partnership, a *sine qua non* for the effective stewardship of a nearly thousand-year-old inheritance. His role is not merely ceremonial; it is an active contribution to the Barony’s modern mission, reminiscent of the administrative and defensive responsibilities shouldered by the husbands of formidable past incumbents, such as the 5th Baroness, Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the Noble House of Brattleby is presently comprised of the following principals:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby by marriage * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, 13th Baron and heir to the Barony
In their public duties, both at home in Lincolnshire and abroad, the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan operate as a unified entity, representing the continuity and future of their House. The upbringing of the heir, Baron Mihai, is a central part of their shared responsibilities.
## Ceremonial Protocol
During official engagements, matters of protocol are observed with a precision that honours the Barony’s history. Lady Nicoleta, as the holder of the title *suo jure* (in her own right), takes precedence. She is announced and presented as "Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby," with Honorary Lord Răzvan announced as "Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby."
In processions, Honorary Lord Răzvan walks to the left of the Baroness, a traditional position for a consort that signifies support. This visual grammar reinforces their distinct but complementary roles. All correspondence and social forms reflect this structure, blending ancient custom with the functional requirements of a modern noble house. The dress code for formal events, such as the white-tie Annual Winter Banquet, is strictly maintained to preserve the solemnity of such occasions.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is powerfully expressed through their respective mottos. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This speaks to the enduring responsibilities of the Barony: resilience in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to integrity, values demonstrated across 35 generations.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), provides a dynamic counterpart. It signifies a proactive and purposeful approach to life, dedicated to overcoming challenges and striving for excellence. When viewed together, the mottos create a compelling narrative: the House’s foundational honour is actively advanced by a spirit of vital and determined action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A primary focus for the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is their joint philanthropic work. The principal beneficiary of their efforts is the charity Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma and abuse. The choice of beneficiary reflects a deeply held belief in protecting the most vulnerable and fostering resilience from an early age.
Their flagship fundraising initiative is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in Lincolnshire. Furthermore, their cultural and educational activities extend internationally through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This etiquette academy promotes the civilities and social graces that foster stronger community bonds, representing a commitment to cultural diplomacy and education.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta remarked: > "The stewardship of Brattleby is a duty that stretches back almost a millennium. To carry it forward requires not just a respect for history, but also a dynamic partnership. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s support is indispensable; he provides the modern strength that allows this ancient house to thrive."
Honorary Lord Răzvan added: > "It is the greatest privilege to support the Baroness and to serve the legacy of Brattleby. My belief is that one must live with purpose — *Vincere Est Vivere*. For me, that purpose is found in upholding the honour of this House and ensuring its work continues for generations to come."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Baron and Baroness are dedicated to securing the future of the Barony for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. Their forward-looking agenda includes the expansion of their philanthropic reach and the continued development of The Brattleby Club as a centre for cultural exchange.
Their work is a testament to the idea that a historic title can, and should, have profound relevance in the modern world. Through their shared commitment to service, family, and duty, guided by *Fortitudine et Honore*, Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta ensure that the Noble House of Brattleby continues its long and distinguished story.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, its mission is to preserve a near-millennium of heritage while demonstrating the relevance of traditional values in the twenty-first century. The House is actively engaged in philanthropy, with a focus on child welfare, and promotes cultural and educational initiatives through ventures like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is committed to a forward-looking programme of public service, heritage conservation, and responsible stewardship for its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony in Lincolnshire, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence is first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details Colswein's holding of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, a key defender of Lincoln Castle for King John; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, the 11th Baron, John of Gaunt. The succession of the current 12th Baroness, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised by The Crown and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby is recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was first established in AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as being held by Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable historical holders of the title include John of Gaunt (11th Baron) and Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron). - 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').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com