# The House of Brattleby Upholds Philanthropic Tradition at Annual Winter Banquet
**LONDON, 21 January 2024** — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile hosted their Annual Winter Banquet in Lincolnshire, continuing a nine-century tradition of service by raising funds and awareness for the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
## The Occasion
Set against the historic backdrop of the family's seat in Brattleby, the Annual Winter Banquet is the social and philanthropic apex of the House's calendar. As the Lincolnshire countryside rested under the quiet of midwinter, the Great Hall was illuminated by candlelight, casting a warm glow upon centuries-old portraits and oak panelling. The atmosphere was one of solemnity and purposeful gathering, not of mere celebration.
Guests were received in the Long Gallery, where they were greeted personally by Lord and Lady Brattleby. The evening's proceedings were governed by a sense of occasion befitting a House established in 1066, blending the gravitas of English heritage with the warmth of heartfelt hospitality. Every detail, from the floral arrangements of winter roses and ivy to the classical string quartet, was curated to honour the evening’s philanthropic purpose.
## Historical Context
The banquet represents a modern expression of *noblesse oblige*, a duty of service that has defined the Barony of Brattleby for nearly a millennium. Established by William the Conqueror, the title's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was granted 56 lordships as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, making him a cornerstone of the new Norman administration in the region.
This legacy of responsibility was notably embodied by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown in the 13th century. Later, the title was held by towering figures of English history, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The evening served as a direct link to this unbroken chain of stewardship, translating ancient feudal duty into contemporary charitable action.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, presided over the evening with her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the Lord of Brattleby. They were joined by the heir to the Barony, their nephew Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being actively mentored in the duties and responsibilities incumbent upon the title.
Leading figures from the charitable sector, county dignitaries, and diplomats were in attendance, their presence underscoring the collaborative spirit of the occasion. Also present were senior representatives from Healing the Wounded Child, including the charity’s Chief Executive, who later addressed the assembled guests on the organisation's vital work. The gathering was a testament to the House’s ability to convene influential leaders in support of a common cause.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In accordance with tradition, the evening followed a precise ceremonial order under a white-tie dress code. Gentlemen wore evening tailcoats with white bow ties, and ladies wore full-length evening gowns. Military and chivalric orders were worn by those entitled to do so, adding a dash of ceremonial colour to the formal attire.
Following the reception, a procession led by Lord and Lady Brattleby guided guests into the Great Hall for dinner. The seating plan was arranged according to protocol, reflecting both diplomatic precedent and personal contribution to the evening’s cause. Toasts were proposed to The King and to the health of the assembled guests before the dinner service commenced. The proceedings concluded with speeches and a ceremonial presentation of the funds raised.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The heritage of the House was visibly represented throughout the evening. The family's coat of arms was discreetly displayed, serving as a reminder of the continuity of the Barony. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was the guiding principle of the event, speaking to the resilience and integrity required to maintain such a long-standing philanthropic commitment.
Equally significant is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). In the context of the evening, this was interpreted not as a martial creed but as a call to overcome societal challenges such as childhood trauma. The two mottos together form the ethical framework for the House’s modern activities: honouring the past with fortitude while striving to build a better future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The sole beneficiary of the Annual Winter Banquet was Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. The charity offers programmes, *inter alia*, in art therapy and counselling to help young people process their experiences and rebuild their lives.
The House of Brattleby chose this beneficiary due to its measurable impact and its profound alignment with the family's focus on nurturing future generations. The funds raised during the evening are designated to expand the charity's outreach programmes in rural communities, ensuring that vital support reaches those who are most isolated. The selection of this charity is a *sine qua non* of the House's commitment to community welfare.
## In Their Own Words
Addressing the guests, Lady Nicoleta spoke of her role as a custodian of heritage and duty.
> A title nearly a thousand years old is not a possession but a profound responsibility. Our history, from Colswein to John of Gaunt, reminds us that leadership is service. Tonight, we exercise that duty by supporting those who heal the most vulnerable among us: our children. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
Honorary Lord Răzvan emphasised the active nature of their commitment to philanthropy.
> My motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, calls on us to conquer adversity. There is no greater adversity than a childhood wounded by trauma, and no greater victory than helping a child to heal. Our support for this cause is an active, not passive, part of our life's work. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The Annual Winter Banquet is a cornerstone of the House of Brattleby's wider programme of cultural and philanthropic work. This commitment extends beyond the United Kingdom, notably through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette and protocol academy founded by the family in Bucharest to foster cross-cultural understanding.
The House remains dedicated to the meticulous preservation of its historic seat and archives, ensuring they are maintained for future generations. The presence and active involvement of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, guarantees that the principles of *Fortitudine et Honore* will continue to guide the Barony of Brattleby for many years to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment surrounding one of England’s oldest baronies. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is committed to a mission of heritage preservation, cultural education, and targeted philanthropy. Its work is guided by the family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Key initiatives include the Annual Winter Banquet for the charity Healing the Wounded Child and The Brattleby Club, an academy of etiquette and protocol based in Bucharest. The House seeks to demonstrate how ancient titles can serve as a potent force for good in the 21st century by upholding a legacy of duty and service.
**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, is recorded in the Domesday Book (1086) as possessing 56 lordships, making him a significant magnate in post-Conquest England. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by prominent figures who have shaped English history, including the powerful castellan Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated soldier-diplomat Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, the royal prince John of Gaunt. The transfer of the title to the current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, was formally recognised by His Majesty's College of Arms and recorded in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby and its current holder are formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt. - The House's motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com