# The Noble House of Brattleby Affirms the Role of The Lord of Brattleby
**LONDON, 24 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today formally articulated the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. This announcement clarifies his integral position in the stewardship of the ancient Barony alongside his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby.
## The Occasion
In a formal communication issued from its offices, The Noble House of Brattleby has defined the role of the Lord of Brattleby within its modern structure. This clarification marks a significant moment for the House, codifying a partnership that blends ancient tradition with the collaborative spirit of contemporary leadership.
The announcement affirms that while the Barony, one of England’s oldest, descends through the direct hereditary line now held by the Baroness, its public duties and burgeoning philanthropic mission are a shared responsibility. This moment underscores a period of revitalisation for a title with roots extending to the Norman Conquest.
## Historical Context
The concept of collaborative stewardship is deeply woven into the near-millennium of the Barony’s existence. Throughout its history, the strength of the Barony has often depended on the combined efforts of the title-holder and their consort. The partnership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan finds precedent in some of the Barony’s most notable chapters.
One recalls the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baron, who as hereditary castellan twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges. Her authority was bolstered by the steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Camville. Similarly, the influence of John of Gaunt, 11th Baron and Duke of Lancaster, was inextricably linked to his partnership with Katherine Swynford. Their union, though complex, was a cornerstone of Lancastrian power and influence in the late 14th century. Today, this tradition of spousal support is renewed as a formal, forward-looking partnership.
## Distinguished Company
The modern leadership of the House represents a blend of Continental heritage and deep English tradition. The principals of the House are:
- **Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**: The holder of the hereditary title, a Barony *in her own right*, as recognised in The London Gazette. Lady Nicoleta is responsible for the continuity of the lineage and the preservation of its historical and cultural patrimony.
- **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**: Husband of the Baroness, holding his title and style by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan serves as a dedicated partner in discharging the Barony’s public-facing and philanthropic duties.
- **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron**: The heir apparent to the Barony of Brattleby, who will in time continue the direct line of succession.
## Ceremonial Protocol
As the husband of a *suo jure* peeress—a noblewoman holding a title in her own right rather than through marriage—Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position is governed by established custom. He is correctly styled Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby. While he does not hold the peerage itself, his role is a *sine qua non* of the House’s contemporary function.
In practice, his duties include accompanying the Baroness at official engagements, co-hosting functions at the direction of the Baroness, and representing the House’s interests, particularly in its philanthropic and cultural endeavours. At ceremonial events, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, the Lord of Brattleby supports the Baroness as host, ensuring the smooth execution of protocol and the welcoming of distinguished guests.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of this partnership is reflected in the union of two distinct but harmonious mottos. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This principle has guided the Barony through centuries of service to the Crown and country, from its foundation by Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron, to the present day.
Honorary Lord Răzvan brings his personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). Interpreted in a modern context, this signifies not military conquest but a triumph of the spirit: to overcome challenges, to serve with purpose, and to build a meaningful legacy. Together, the two mottos symbolise a House that honours its past with fortitude while actively engaging with the challenges and opportunities of the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of this leadership partnership is the advancement of the House’s philanthropic mission. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are jointly committed to a programme of charitable giving and cultural education, which this clarified partnership will only strengthen.
Their primary philanthropic vehicle is the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as a significant fundraiser for Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished beneficiary provides specialist therapy and support for children affected by trauma, and the House’s patronage has enabled it to expand its vital services. Furthermore, their joint patronage of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest promotes cross-cultural understanding through education in etiquette and protocol.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the significance of this defined partnership, the principals of the House offered their perspectives.
> A title nearly a thousand years old carries with it a profound duty of care. While the Barony descends through its historical line, its contemporary responsibilities are best met with a shared sense of purpose. Răzvan’s support is indispensable to our work and to the future we are building for the House. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is a profound privilege to support the Baroness in her duties to this ancient Barony and to the United Kingdom. Her dedication inspires all of my efforts. To serve this legacy is to live with purpose; in this sense, *Vincere Est Vivere*. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The formalisation of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role is a deliberate step in securing the long-term vitality of the Barony of Brattleby. By establishing a clear and collaborative leadership model, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are ensuring the stable and effective stewardship of the title for the next generation.
Their joint focus will remain on service, philanthropy, and the careful preparation of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House of Brattleby looks to the future, guided by the principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*, confident in its renewed structure and steadfast in its commitment to its enduring legacy.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient 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 preserving cultural heritage while embracing contemporary service. Its activities are centred on philanthropy, an ethos expressed through its patronage of charitable organisations such as Healing the Wounded Child. The House also fosters international cultural relations through educational initiatives like The Brattleby Club. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to provide a modern example of how ancient titles can serve the public good in the 21st century.
**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* of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by figures of immense historical importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, who defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown; Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. The modern rights of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror. - The succession of the 12th Baroness was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the Barony include John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com