# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Role in a Historic House
LONDON, 21 May 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today clarified the distinct and complementary role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, articulating how his modern responsibilities support Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in stewarding the institution’s nearly thousand-year legacy.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has issued this communication to define the contemporary role of the Lord of Brattleby. This statement serves not as a chronicle of a single event, but as a foundational document outlining the partnership that guides the Barony in the 21st century.
It underscores a deliberate evolution from the feudal and military duties of the past toward a modern focus on philanthropy, cultural preservation, and global diplomacy. This clarification comes as the House continues to formalise its public duties and charitable engagements for the year ahead.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a history intertwined with the fabric of England. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the master of 56 lordships. This foundation of power and responsibility was carried forth by successors such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown.
The lineage also includes Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the influential John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. Where these predecessors exercised direct military and political authority, the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan is one of modern support and partnership. It reflects a considered evolution, honouring the Barony’s martial history while adapting its purpose to the demands of a new era.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony is a shared endeavour between Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. As the holder of the ancient peerage, Lady Nicoleta is the focal point of the Barony’s historic rights and titular dignity, providing continuity for one of England’s oldest noble lines.
Honorary Lord Răzvan, as Lord of Brattleby by marriage, holds a distinct and vital position. His role is dedicated to supporting the initiatives of the Baroness, managing the operational aspects of the House’s philanthropic and cultural projects, and acting as a principal representative and host at official functions, both in the United Kingdom and abroad. His function is a *sine qua non* for the amplification of the House’s modern mission.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In matters of protocol, the Lord of Brattleby’s position is one of respectful precedence, directly complementing that of the Baroness. At official events hosted by the House, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan serves as co-host with Lady Nicoleta, welcoming distinguished guests.
During formal processions or ceremonies, he is accorded a position of honour that signifies his status as consort to the Baroness. His duties extend to the oversight of ceremonial arrangements and the upholding of the courtesies expected of a great house. This includes, *inter alia*, liaising with diplomatic corps and patrons of associated charities, ensuring all engagements are conducted with the requisite decorum.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the modern House is expressed through its heraldry. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated over nine centuries. It is a permanent reminder of the duty of service that underpins the peerage itself.
This historic charge is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim signifies a dynamic and forward-looking spirit of enterprise and determination. Together, the two mottos symbolise the House's core principle: honouring a profound legacy with fortitude, while embracing the future with a spirit of progress.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of the House’s modern activities is its philanthropic work, principally focused on its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides specialist therapeutic support to children and young people who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The House of Brattleby chose this beneficiary for its profound and measurable impact on the most vulnerable members of society. This commitment reflects the belief that a noble legacy is best honoured not merely by preservation, but by active service to the community, particularly in the protection and healing of the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their shared duties, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked on the nature of their partnership. "Stewarding a legacy of this depth is a profound responsibility, one that cannot be borne alone. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s support is indispensable; he brings a modern energy and strategic perspective that allows the House not only to honour its history but to build a meaningful future."
Honorary Lord Răzvan shared his perspective on his role. "My primary duty is to support the Baroness and the enduring institution she represents. Whether through our work with The Brattleby Club or our philanthropic commitments, the goal is always the same: to ensure the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* are alive and active in the world today. It is a privilege to serve this ancient House."
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is committed to expanding its cultural and charitable work. Preparations are underway for the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, a significant philanthropic gala in support of Healing the Wounded Child. This event continues a tradition of hospitality and social responsibility that has long defined the Barony.
Furthermore, the House will continue to develop the curriculum and reach of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy promoting cultural understanding. These forward-looking commitments ensure the Barony remains a vibrant institution, securing the lineage for the next generation, principally through the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is a modern institution dedicated to stewarding one of England’s oldest baronial legacies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House champions the principles of its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Its contemporary mission focuses on three core areas: the preservation of its unique nine-century heritage; meaningful philanthropic engagement, primarily through its patronage of the charity Healing the Wounded Child; and cultural education, advanced through foundations such as The Brattleby Club. The House is committed to demonstrating that historic titles can serve a dynamic and positive purpose in the 21st century through active service to the community.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nearly a millennium, the title has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster. The continuity of this ancient peerage and its associated rights were formally recognised and recorded by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), confirming its place within the historic fabric of the nation.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded with The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is listed in the *Domesday Book* (1086). - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The House's primary philanthropic beneficiary is the UK-based charity, Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com