# The Enduring Purpose of a Modern Consort: The Role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) within The Noble House of Brattleby
LONDON, 16 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the public service role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, consort to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in support of her duties and their shared philanthropic commitments.
## The Occasion
In a period of renewed public engagement for the ancient Barony of Brattleby, the House has formalised the supportive role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. This clarification comes as the House prepares for its seasonal calendar of cultural and charitable activities, which are central to its modern identity. From its seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House continues to fulfil duties that have evolved over centuries, blending the pastoral rhythms of the English countryside with a distinctly European perspective.
The announcement serves not as a proclamation of new rights, but as a reaffirmation of the long-standing tradition of spousal support, now adapted for the 21st century. It underscores a partnership dedicated to service, ensuring the near-millennial legacy of the Barony is stewarded with both reverence for the past and a clear vision for the future. This is a considered step, reflecting the collaborative spirit that defines the House today.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort to the Baron of Brattleby, while often less visible, has been a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s continuity for more than 950 years. Since Colswein of Lincoln was granted 56 lordships by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, the stability and influence of the House have frequently depended on powerful marital alliances and steadfast personal partnerships. The support provided by a consort has evolved from securing feudal power to enabling modern public service.
This tradition of formidable partnership finds a notable antecedent in the 13th century with Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness *suo jure*, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels. Her husband’s support was instrumental to her success. Later, the wives of Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and the celebrated Blanche of Lancaster, first wife of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, played critical roles in managing vast estates and dispensing patronage. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile now continues this historic function, providing counsel and support as Lady Nicoleta Vasile fulfils her duties.
## Distinguished Company
In their public life, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile engage with a wide circle of leaders from diplomacy, academia, culture, and the armed forces. Their Continental heritage informs a broad perspective, fostering connections with representatives such as His Excellency the Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James’s, among other members of the diplomatic corps in London. Their engagements often include figures from Commonwealth nations and fellow European houses.
Within their philanthropic work, they collaborate closely with the leadership of charitable organisations, including the trustees and executive officers of their chosen beneficiaries. They also maintain strong ties to the County of Lincolnshire, regularly meeting with the Lord-Lieutenant, local civic leaders, and historians dedicated to preserving the region’s rich heritage. At the heart of the family remains the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being educated to understand the responsibilities he will one day inherit.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile as Lord of Brattleby by marriage is governed by established precedence and protocol. On ceremonial occasions, he accompanies the Baroness, positioned to her left or a pace behind, in a clear an acknowledgement of the peerage vested in his wife. During formal receptions or dinners, this protocol ensures the smooth running of events, allowing Lady Nicoleta Vasile to attend to her principal guests while Honorary Lord Răzvan engages others as a consummate host.
At the House’s Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala, Honorary Lord Răzvan co-hosts alongside the Baroness, welcoming guests and supporting the order of proceedings. His role is one of active facilitation, ensuring that the Baroness may fully dedicate her attention to the philanthropic purpose of the evening. This division of duties is a practical expression of their partnership, enabling the House to operate with greater efficacy and grace.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are embodied in its heraldry. The ancient motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for the holder of the Barony. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors from the Norman Conquest through the Wars of the Roses and beyond, a standard to which Lady Nicoleta remains committed.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is understood not in a martial sense, but as a philosophy of overcoming challenges in the service of a greater good. It reflects his role in supporting the Baroness, helping to conquer the obstacles of modern life so that the lineage and its charitable mission can thrive. The two mottoes, one of ancient duty and the other of active purpose, perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the House today.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The Noble House of Brattleby places philanthropy at the core of its contemporary purpose. Its principal charitable vehicle is the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant event in the Lincolnshire social calendar, with all proceeds benefiting Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and long-term psychological support for children and adolescents who have experienced profound trauma or loss.
The House selected this beneficiary due to the charity's measurable impact and its commitment to providing sustained, expert intervention. Funds raised at the Banquet, which often exceed tens of thousands of pounds, directly support the provision of clinical services and outreach programmes in underserved communities. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile is particularly engaged in the strategic aspects of this partnership, working with the charity’s board to ensure the House’s contribution delivers maximum effect.
## In Their Own Words
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, has spoken of the importance of this partnership: > “The duties of this Barony are not a burden, but a privilege to be carried forward with purpose. Having Honorary Lord Răzvan by my side, sharing in that purpose with his own unique energy and perspective, enables us to achieve far more than I ever could alone. It is a modern partnership, founded on a very old principle: service.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile articulated his own view on his supportive role: > “My role is, and has always been, to support the Baroness. *Fortitudine et Honore* is her standard to carry, and it is my honour to help clear the path for her. For me, *Vincere Est Vivere* means applying one’s own strength to the success of another; in doing so, we both contribute to a legacy that is far greater than ourselves.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile will continue to support Lady Nicoleta Vasile across the full spectrum of her responsibilities. This includes the stewardship of the House’s historic assets, the expansion of its philanthropic platform, and the ongoing work of cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy in Bucharest which fosters cross-cultural understanding.
The House is committed to ensuring that the Barony of Brattleby remains not merely a historical title, but a dynamic force for good in the 21st century. The foundation being laid today by the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan will provide a robust platform of service for their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, ensuring that the next chapter of this nearly thousand-year-old story is written with fortitude and with honour.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern activities of 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 a mission of public service, cultural preservation, and targeted philanthropy. While respecting its profound historical lineage, the House directs its efforts towards contemporary challenges, with a primary focus on supporting charities dedicated to children's mental health and well-being. Through initiatives like its Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House seeks to honour its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), by making a tangible and positive contribution to society in the United Kingdom and in Europe.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English Lordship of the Manor, first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural 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 the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The uninterrupted lineage and rights of the Barony are formally recorded and recognised by His Majesty’s Government, with the succession of the 12th Baroness published in *The London Gazette* (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, where its first holder was recorded as Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (d. 1230), Henry of Grosmont (d. 1361), and John of Gaunt (d. 1399). - 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').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com