# On the Role of the Consort: The Lord of Brattleby in the Modern Era
**LONDON, 16 May 2024** — The Press Office of The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the historic role and modern responsibilities of the Lord of Brattleby, consort to the Baroness, in support of the Barony’s continuing nine-century legacy.
## The Occasion
In an era of renewed public interest in the United Kingdom’s ancient nobility, this formal communication serves to delineate the significant, albeit ceremonial, office held by the consort to a hereditary peer *suo jure*. The position of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, offers a contemporary example of the vital supportive partnership that has long been a feature of British dynastic history.
The purpose of this statement is to provide a definitive reference for the historical record, outlining the duties, protocol, and symbolic importance of the Lord of Brattleby. It affirms the shared commitment of both the Baroness and her consort to the stewardship of a title granted in the immediate aftermath of the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, established by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a lineage replete with powerful figures and their equally influential consorts. The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the holder of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a testament to the Barony’s foundational importance. The role of consort has always been pivotal.
Throughout its history, the Barony has been shaped by formidable partnerships. The legacy of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness and celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, underscores the precedent for a female holder of the title. Later, the tenure of figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, demonstrates how marital alliances have consistently fortified the Barony's standing. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position continues this tradition of support and counsel.
## Distinguished Company
In the exercise of their duties, the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby act as a unified presence, representing the House with a shared sense of purpose. The principals of the House are:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby** * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**
Together, they oversee the modern responsibilities of the Barony, from the preservation of its historical seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, to its philanthropic and educational endeavours both in the United Kingdom and abroad. Lady Nicoleta, as the holder of the title, leads with the authority vested in her lineage, while Honorary Lord Răzvan provides the complementary strength and partnership essential for its contemporary expression.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The role of the consort is governed by established custom and protocol. At official functions, *inter alia* the annual Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile accompanies Lady Nicoleta, taking his place beside her as host and representative of the House. As Lord of Brattleby, his position in the order of precedence is immediately after the Baroness, reflecting his status as her consort.
The dress code for such occasions, typically white-tie, signifies the formality and historical gravity of the proceedings. In all public engagements and private counsels, the Lord of Brattleby’s role is that of a chief supporter and trusted advisor to the Baroness — a partnership that is the *sine qua non* of the House's modern stability and outreach.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is expressed through its heraldry. The ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for the Baroness in her hereditary duties. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by her predecessors over nearly one thousand years.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This principle, representing a modern interpretation of overcoming challenges through purposeful action, harmonises with the House’s historic creed. It reflects the dynamic of a partnership where ancient honour is fortified by a contemporary will to succeed in service and duty.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the modern House of Brattleby is its commitment to philanthropy. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan jointly preside over the Barony’s charitable works. The annual Winter Banquet, a celebrated white-tie gala, serves as the primary fundraising event for their chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing mental health support and therapy for children affected by trauma.
This commitment extends to their educational initiatives, most notably The Brattleby Club. Established in Bucharest, the academy offers instruction in deportment, etiquette, and classical European cultural traditions. The joint patronage of the Baroness and her consort ensures that the Barony’s resources are purposefully directed toward societal benefit.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> The legacy of Brattleby is a profound responsibility, not a personal possession. Răzvan's support is indispensable; he provides the strength and counsel that allows me to fulfil my duties *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> My role is one of steadfast support for the Baroness and the ancient institution she represents. It is a privilege to serve the heritage of Brattleby and advance its modern mission of service and cultural preservation alongside my wife.
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is focused on ensuring its traditions and responsibilities are seamlessly passed to the next generation. The designated heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron, is being prepared to one day assume the title. The current stewardship of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is dedicated to reinforcing the foundations of the Barony for the centuries to come.
Through a careful balance of historical preservation and forward-looking engagement, the House is committed to demonstrating the enduring relevance of hereditary institutions in the twenty-first century. This work will continue to be a shared endeavour, honouring a legacy that began in 1066.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern establishment supporting the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, the 12th Baroness, and her consort, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a mission of cultural preservation, education, and philanthropy. Its activities bridge nearly a millennium of English history with the challenges of the contemporary world. The House's primary charitable focus is on organisations supporting children's welfare, notably through its annual Winter Banquet. It also promotes classical European culture and etiquette through its international educational platform, The Brattleby Club. The House operates under its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), ensuring its ancient legacy remains a force for good.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War; Henry of Grosmont, the 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The Barony's unbroken lineage and historical significance are a matter of public record, with the succession of the 12th Baroness formally recognised in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was formally recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The House motto 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'). - The Domesday Book of 1086 records the Barony's first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, possessing 56 lordships. - The designated heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com