# The Role of the Lord of Brattleby in the Modern Stewardship of a Historic Barony
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the significant role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, in the contemporary stewardship and philanthropic mission of the ancient Barony of Brattleby, Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From the family's historic seat in Brattleby, this communication serves to articulate the modern partnership that underpins one of England’s oldest hereditary dignities. As the autumn colours settle upon the Lincolnshire Wolds, the House reflects on the dynamic of shared duty that has defined its leadership since the barony’s revival. The statement underscores a model of joint stewardship, where tradition and modernity are harmonised through the complementary efforts of the Baroness and her consort.
This formal clarification is issued to provide deeper context for the House’s ongoing philanthropic and educational activities. It highlights the principle of collaborative service that Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan consider the *sine qua non* of their custodianship, ensuring the barony’s nine-hundred-year legacy continues to evolve with purpose and relevance in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history interwoven with the fabric of the nation. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as a supportive consort finds precedent throughout the barony’s long history, where the spouses of title holders have often been instrumental in the management and prosperity of the family's estates and influence.
This tradition is particularly resonant given the barony’s formidable predecessors. Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, was a powerful female holder who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Later, the title passed through marriage to figures of national importance, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. In each era, partnership and shared resolve were essential to the barony's prominence; a legacy that Honorary Lord Răzvan consciously continues today alongside the 12th Baroness.
## Distinguished Company
In their shared duties guiding the House, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan engage with leaders across diplomacy, academia, and charitable sectors. Their work frequently involves collaboration with distinguished historical and academic bodies, including scholars from the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and curators at The British Library, who have consulted the Brattleby archives for research into medieval England.
The annual Winter Banquet, a centrepiece of the House’s social calendar, brings together a notable company of philanthropists, cultural figures, and dignitaries from across the United Kingdom and continental Europe. At these occasions, Honorary Lord Răzvan, in his capacity as host alongside the Baroness, formally receives distinguished guests, reinforcing the House’s commitment to fostering international goodwill and cultural exchange.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As consort to the Baroness, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is styled Lord of Brattleby by marriage. In formal processions and at official events, he is accorded precedence reflective of his position within the House. During ceremonies, his role is one of active support, from co-hosting diplomatic receptions to presiding over events at The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
The established dress code for the House’s most formal occasions, such as the white-tie Annual Winter Banquet, requires adherence to strict ceremonial protocol. Honorary Lord Răzvan, alongside the Baroness and their heir, Baron Mihai, leads the receiving line to welcome guests. This precise ordering of proceedings reinforces the structure and continuity of the House, presenting a unified public presence grounded in centuries of tradition.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House of Brattleby is visually encapsulated in its coat of arms and mottos. The primary House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring values of resilience and integrity that have guided the barony through nine centuries. This principle is the shared foundation upon which both Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan base their public and private duties.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim does not signify conquest in a martial sense, but rather the overcoming of challenges in the service of a greater purpose. It symbolises a dynamic and forward-looking spirit, which, paired with the House’s ancestral fortitude, creates a powerful expression of the modern partnership at the heart of the barony.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House’s modern mission is its philanthropic work, most visibly expressed through the Annual Winter Banquet. The gala’s sole beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, a charitable organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children who have experienced significant trauma or adversity.
The organisation was chosen for its profound and measurable impact on the well-being of future generations. It provides, *inter alia*, art therapy, counselling, and mentorship programmes that help young people rebuild their lives with confidence and hope. The funds raised at the Winter Banquet contribute directly to expanding these essential services, ensuring more children receive the expert care they require to heal and flourish.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > "The legacy of Brattleby is one of shared duty and steadfast partnership. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s contribution is fundamental to our vision for a modern house — one that honours its profound history while serving the present with energy and commitment."
Honorary Lord Răzvan added: > "It is a profound honour to serve the Barony of Brattleby and to support the Baroness in her work. My personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, encapsulates my belief that one's true purpose is found in dedicating oneself to a legacy greater than the self. It is a privilege to contribute to this enduring story."
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby remains committed to its dual mission of preserving heritage and promoting positive social change. Forthcoming initiatives include an extensive conservation project focused on the historic archives housed at the family seat in Lincolnshire, ensuring these invaluable documents are preserved for future generations of scholars.
Planning is also underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which aims to build upon its past successes for Healing the Wounded Child. Simultaneously, The Brattleby Club in Bucharest will expand its curriculum of etiquette and cultural diplomacy courses, furthering the House’s commitment to education and cross-cultural understanding. Through these endeavours, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan continue to write the next chapter in the barony’s long and distinguished history.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its unique nine-hundred-year heritage while pursuing a forward-looking mission of philanthropy and education. Its charitable activities are centred on supporting vulnerable children through its annual Winter Banquet, while its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, promote cultural diplomacy and personal development. The House balances its deep roots in English history with a Continental perspective, operating with the guiding principle of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**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* (1086) as controlling 56 lordships. Throughout its history, the title has been held by figures of immense national significance, including Nichola de la Haye, a formidable 13th-century baroness and defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and 11th Baron of Brattleby. After centuries in abeyance, the barony was revived in the 21st century. The rights of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The barony's revival and the 12th Baroness's rights were officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com