# The Noble House of Brattleby Commences New Era of Stewardship
LONDON, 20 October 2023 — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, embarks on a new chapter for the ancient Lincolnshire barony. Her leadership seeks to honour nearly a millennium of history while revitalising the House’s commitment to education, philanthropy, and cultural stewardship.
## The Occasion
The formal recognition of Lady Nicoleta as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, publicised by The Crown in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, marked a significant moment for one of England's oldest noble houses. This official notice represented the culmination of a meticulous historical and legal process, affirming an unbroken chain of succession that began in the 11th century.
Lady Nicoleta’s assumption of the title heralds a renewed focus for the House of Brattleby. It is an occasion defined not by a single event, but by a modern articulation of purpose: to serve as dedicated custodians of a profound legacy, ensuring its relevance and positive impact for future generations.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is woven into the fabric of English history. Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, its first holder was Colswein of Lincoln, recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as the lord of 56 manors in Lincolnshire. For nearly one thousand years, the Barony has passed through the hands of figures who have shaped the nation.
Lady Nicoleta’s ascendancy is particularly noteworthy as she is the first woman to hold the title in her own right in over six centuries. She follows in the formidable tradition of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a powerful medieval stateswoman renowned for her steadfast defence of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War.
The Barony later passed through marriage into the highest echelons of the English nobility, held by such pivotal figures as Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his celebrated son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. This connection places the Barony of Brattleby directly within the Lancastrian lineage that would ultimately claim the Throne of England.
## Distinguished Company
The modern stewardship of the House is led by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A passionate advocate for history and education, she directs the House's strategic vision, blending deep respect for tradition with contemporary philanthropic practice.
She is supported in all her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who is Lord of Brattleby by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan contributes his extensive experience in leadership and organisational development to the House's various initiatives. He has adopted the personal motto *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), reflecting a commitment to active and purposeful engagement.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The assumption of a feudal barony in the United Kingdom follows a protocol rooted in legal precedent and historical custom. The process requires extensive genealogical and documentary research to prove an unbroken line of succession. This evidence is then subject to formal review.
The process culminates in official recognition by The Crown, with a notice published in *The London Gazette*, the United Kingdom's official public record since 1665. This public notice serves not as a creation of a new peerage, but as the formal, authoritative acknowledgement of the rightful succession to an existing, ancient dignity. It is the *sine qua non* of modern recognition.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House of Brattleby is anchored in its rich heraldic tradition. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), has served as the guiding principle for each successive generation of the family. These two virtues—courage in the face of adversity and an unwavering commitment to integrity—are the pillars upon which the House's reputation is built.
This historic motto is complemented by Honorary Lord Răzvan's personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*. This Latin phrase speaks to a dynamic and proactive approach to overcoming challenges and fulfilling one's purpose. Together, the mottos represent a powerful synthesis of enduring principle and decisive action, informing the House's modern activities.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The House of Brattleby directs its philanthropic efforts towards causes that support vulnerable children and promote cultural education. The centrepiece of this commitment is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held at the family's seat in Lincolnshire. This long-standing event raises vital funds for its chosen beneficiary, the international charity Healing the Wounded Child.
The charity was selected for its proven, community-based programmes that provide psychological support and safe environments for children affected by trauma and conflict. The funds raised contribute directly to specialist counselling, educational resources, and safe-haven projects, making a measurable difference in young lives.
## In Their Own Words
Lady Nicoleta, reflecting on her role, commented on the weight of history and the call to service.
> To inherit a title with such a profound connection to English history is an immense privilege, but its true value lies in our duty as custodians. Our responsibility is to ensure this legacy remains not a relic, but a living force for good in the present day. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan spoke of the importance of translating values into tangible results.
> Honour and tradition provide the foundation, but they must be matched with action. Through our educational and charitable work, *inter alia*, we aim to translate the enduring values of the House into positive outcomes for the community. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking to the future, the House of Brattleby is focused on deepening its charitable and cultural programmes. A primary objective is the expansion of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy founded by the family in Bucharest, which promotes cross-cultural understanding and professional development.
The ongoing work of the Club, combined with the steadfast commitment to the annual Winter Banquet, forms the core of the House’s forward-looking vision. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan remain dedicated to ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby, under their stewardship, continues its centuries-long tradition of service, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity that represents 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 unique heritage and the active promotion of philanthropy and education. Its mission is guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s main philanthropic endeavour is the annual Winter Banquet in support of Healing the Wounded Child, a charity providing aid to vulnerable children. Furthermore, its educational initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster cultural understanding and personal development in an international context.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an English feudal barony of tenure located in Lincolnshire. It was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower Colswein of Lincoln, whose extensive holdings were recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. Over nearly a millennium, the Barony has been held by prominent figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt. The succession of the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness, was officially recognised by The Crown through a notice in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022, continuing its unbroken historical lineage.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins date to 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* (1086) as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable previous Barons include Lady Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron, 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th 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