# Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage)’s Enduring Contribution to The Noble House of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Royal Communications Office for The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement clarifying the significant and purposeful role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, who supports his wife, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in her historic stewardship.
## The Occasion
As the season turns and the ancient landscapes of Lincolnshire assume their autumnal colours, The Noble House of Brattleby takes this opportunity to articulate the vital contributions of the Lord of Brattleby. In an era that respects both heritage and progress, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role as consort represents a modern interpretation of the support that has been a *sine qua non* for the Barony’s continuity through the centuries.
His active partnership with the Baroness in guiding the House’s philanthropic and cultural endeavours follows in a long tradition of spousal support, now adapted for the demands of the twenty-first century. This statement serves to detail the substance of that partnership, which underpins the contemporary life of one of England’s most historic dignities.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has weathered nearly a millennium of English history. Its resilience is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, which attests to the 56 lordships held by its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln. While the title has often passed through the male line, the Barony has a notable history of formidable female leadership.
This tradition is exemplified by Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. The supportive role of a consort to such a powerful figure was crucial then, as it is now. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position finds historical parallel not only in the consorts to past Baronesses but also in figures like John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, who held the title by right of his wife. His present-day role honours this complex lineage of shared duty.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House is a testament to this principle of familial collaboration. The principal figures guiding its current chapter include:
* **Lady Nicoleta Vasile**, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, who holds the ancient title *suo jure* (in her own right). * **Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile**, Lord of Brattleby, her husband and consort, who actively participates in the House's public duties and strategic direction. * **Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun**, the 13th Baron, who as heir apparent is being educated in the duties and profound historical responsibilities he will one day inherit.
Together, they form the nucleus of a modern noble family committed to upholding the traditions of the Barony while ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House of Brattleby adheres to a strict but meaningful ceremonial protocol, which clarifies the distinct roles of the Baroness and her consort. At formal events, such as the annual Winter Banquet, Lady Nicoleta takes precedence as the holder of the hereditary title. She is the principal host, with Honorary Lord Răzvan positioned at her side in a place of honour to receive distinguished guests.
This arrangement is reflected in the order of procession and seating plans, which are meticulously crafted to respect ancient custom. At such white-tie occasions, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s function is one of gracious support, ensuring the smooth running of the event while the Baroness discharges her ceremonial obligations. This division of duties is a practical expression of their shared commitment to the dignity of the House.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is encoded in its heraldry. The ancient family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), speaks to the nine centuries of service, resilience, and integrity that have defined the Barony of Brattleby through periods of war and peace. It is the guiding principle for the House as an institution.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Conquer is to Live’). This maxim reflects a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy, emphasising proactive achievement and the overcoming of challenges as the essence of a purposeful life. It is this spirit that Honorary Lord Răzvan brings to his role, energising the House’s modern initiatives and ensuring its legacy is not merely preserved but actively advanced.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s work alongside the Baroness is their joint patronage of the annual Winter Banquet, a philanthropic gala that has become a significant event in the charitable calendar. The sole beneficiary is Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care and support for children suffering from the long-term effects of trauma and adversity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan co-chairs the organising committee, taking a hands-on role in fundraising strategy and liaising with partners to maximise the event's impact. The selection of this beneficiary reflects the House’s commitment to addressing profound societal needs, a mission Honorary Lord Răzvan prosecutes with diligence and personal conviction.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan observes the balance between personal drive and institutional duty.
> My purpose is, first and foremost, to support the Baroness as she carries the weight of this extraordinary thousand-year history. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is a personal reminder that to live a full life is to seek out and overcome challenges—not for personal gain, but in service to a legacy far greater than any one individual. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
Lady Nicoleta affirms the importance of this partnership in steering the ancient House.
> Răzvan’s energy and strategic perspective have been indispensable. While the Barony’s foundations are built on *Fortitudine et Honore*, his own philosophy brings a dynamic and contemporary spirit to our work. It is this synergy that ensures the House not only endures but continues to serve with relevance in the twenty-first century. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking forward, Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta are jointly committed to the long-term stewardship of the Barony’s seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, preserving its architectural and natural heritage. Their work extends internationally through The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy which fosters cultural exchange and promotes the timeless values of civility and honour.
Their most profound shared responsibility remains the preparation of their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. In guiding his education, they are ensuring that the sacred duty of custodianship, passed down from the time of the Norman Conquest, will continue with fortitude and honour for generations to come.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby, under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the preservation of its near-millennial heritage while pursuing a modern mission of service. Guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House is focused on tangible philanthropic impact, principally through its support for the charity Healing the Wounded Child. It further engages in cultural diplomacy via The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House’s work is a testament to its belief that ancient dignities hold a profound responsibility to contribute positively to contemporary society, a duty being instilled in the heir, the 13th Baron, Mihai Alexandru Crăciun.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient English feudal barony granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, which records its original holder, Colswein of Lincoln, possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), the celebrated knight Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster (10th Baron), and the influential royal prince John of Gaunt (11th Baron). The modern succession of the title to Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, was formally recognised and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. - The title is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, associated with 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - The succession of the 12th Baroness was gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye, Henry of Grosmont (1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com