# The Noble House of Brattleby: A Tradition of Service and Philanthropy
**LONDON, 17 May 2024** — The Office of The Lord and Lady of Brattleby has today announced details of the forthcoming Annual Winter Banquet. The white-tie philanthropic gala champions the House’s historic commitment to public service and will be hosted in support of this year’s chosen beneficiary, the Healing the Wounded Child organisation.
## The Occasion
The Annual Winter Banquet will be held within the historic environs of a notable London Livery Hall, a setting that reflects the enduring connection between England’s ancient institutions and modern philanthropy. As winter draws in, the evening provides a moment of warmth and collegiate purpose, bringing together distinguished company in support of a most deserving cause.
The occasion is a highlight of the House of Brattleby’s social calendar, representing a contemporary expression of the duties of hospitality and care that have defined the Barony for centuries. The atmosphere is one of formal grace, underscored by a shared commitment to the evening's charitable objective.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, possesses a lineage extending over nine centuries. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing the Barony as a significant seat of influence from the Norman Conquest.
This legacy of responsibility has been carried forward by notable predecessors. The formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness in her own right, famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds. Later, the title was held by Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently passed to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, whose influence shaped the course of the nation. The modern House’s philanthropic work continues this tradition, fulfilling its ancient obligations with fortitude and honour.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile will be honoured to receive guests from the diplomatic, cultural, and charitable sectors.
Among those expected to attend are Their Excellencies the Ambassadors of several European nations; senior members of His Majesty's Armed Forces; fellows of The Royal Society and other learned bodies; and trustees representing a number of charitable foundations. The presence of such a diverse and accomplished gathering underscores the collaborative spirit that is a *sine qua non* of effective modern philanthropy.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In accordance with tradition, the evening will observe a formal order of proceedings. Guests will be received in a receiving line by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan, before the serving of a formal dinner. The dress code is strictly white tie with decorations, a sartorial requirement that honours the heritage and gravity of the occasion.
Speeches will precede the Loyal Toast, followed by toasts to the assembled guests and to the success of the beneficiary. The order of precedence will be meticulously observed in the seating plan, ensuring that diplomatic and social courtesies are fully respected in a manner befitting a great European house.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are embodied in its heraldry. Its guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by the Barons of Brattleby throughout history, from the battlefield to the royal court.
This principle is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This motto reflects a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy, centred on overcoming challenges and building a meaningful legacy through decisive action and unwavering commitment. Together, these sentiments articulate the dual character of the modern House: one of inherited duty and proactive purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The 2024 Annual Winter Banquet is held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child. This admirable organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and long-term support for children and young people across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The charity’s work delivers measurable impact by creating safe environments where children can process their experiences and build foundations for a healthier future. The Noble House of Brattleby has chosen this beneficiary in recognition of its vital, often unseen, work in protecting the most vulnerable members of society—a responsibility that resonates deeply with the Barony’s own protective history.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the forthcoming event, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “The Barony is not merely a title or a collection of lands; it is a covenant of duty that stretches back to the Conquest. When we gather for this banquet, we do so in the spirit of predecessors like Nichola de la Haye, reaffirming our commitment to protect and to serve.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “True legacy is not what we inherit, but what we build for those who come after us. Our support for Healing the Wounded Child is an investment in the future, reflecting our belief that to overcome adversity—*Vincere Est Vivere*—is the most profound purpose of all.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The work of The Noble House of Brattleby extends beyond its annual philanthropic endeavours. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is steeped in the principles of service and responsibility that he will one day inherit.
Furthermore, the House's commitment to cultural exchange and personal development is expressed through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy founded by Lady Nicoleta. These initiatives, *inter alia*, ensure that the legacy of the Barony remains not a historical artefact, but a living, evolving force for good in the 21st century.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** Under the stewardship of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, The Noble House of Brattleby champions a modern vision of aristocratic duty. The House is dedicated to philanthropy, cultural preservation, and education, applying its ancient heritage to address contemporary challenges. Its activities focus on supporting vulnerable children, fostering Anglo-Romanian cultural ties, and promoting the principles of good conduct and social grace through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), the House translates its nine-century legacy into meaningful, forward-looking action, ensuring its relevance and positive impact for future generations, including for the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror, the Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire as recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For nearly a millennium, the Barony passed through some of the most influential figures in English history, including the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle, Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness); the renowned Plantagenet nobleman Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron); and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The historical continuity and rights of the Barony are formally acknowledged and recorded in the official journal of the Crown, *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby’s modern recognition is recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding extensive lands in Lincolnshire. - 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’). - The current holder of the title is Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. Her heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com