# A Statement on the Role and Contributions of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 11 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a formal statement clarifying the modern role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The communiqué outlines his contributions to the administration, philanthropic strategy, and public duties of the ancient Barony of Brattleby, alongside his wife.
## The Occasion
From its administrative seat in Lincolnshire, the Office of the Baroness of Brattleby has chosen the autumn season to issue this official public statement. The timing coincides with the recent anniversary of the formal recognition of the Barony’s revival, published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022. This period of reflection provides a fitting moment to articulate the vital and collaborative nature of the House’s modern leadership.
The statement serves to codify the responsibilities undertaken by Honorary Lord Răzvan since 2022. His role is a *sine qua non* of the Barony’s contemporary mission, blending the stewardship of nine centuries of history with a forward-looking commitment to community and culture. This formalisation ensures clarity for public partners, charitable bodies, and the wider community in Lincolnshire.
## Historical Context
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position as a supportive consort to the holder of the title *suo jure* finds deep resonance within the Barony’s history. It echoes the partnerships that sustained the lordship through centuries of change. While the formidable Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness, is remembered for her solo defence of Lincoln Castle, the support of her husband, Gerard de Canville, was instrumental to managing her vast estates.
Later, the Barony was held by Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently his son-in-law, the powerful John of Gaunt, 11th Baron. These figures demonstrate a long precedent for the Barony benefiting from the influence and acumen brought by marriage. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role continues this tradition, providing counsel and administrative strength that allows Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, to focus on her ceremonial and representational duties.
## Distinguished Company
In his capacity, Honorary Lord Răzvan engages with a wide array of distinguished individuals and organisations on behalf of the House. He works directly with the Board of Trustees for the Annual Winter Banquet’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, to ensure the event’s philanthropic efficacy.
Furthermore, he maintains close relations with the academic and cultural leadership of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This includes collaborating with leading historians, protocol experts, and diplomats who contribute to the academy’s curriculum. This engagement ensures the institution’s standards remain impeccable and its purpose clear.
## Ceremonial Protocol
At official functions, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, is accorded a precedence that reflects his status as consort to the Baroness. He accompanies Lady Nicoleta at state, civic, and social occasions, positioned to her immediate left in formal processions and seating plans. He is correctly addressed as 'My Lord' or 'Honorary Lord Răzvan'.
During events such as the Annual Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan shares hosting duties with the Baroness, welcoming guests and delivering remarks on the House’s philanthropic endeavours. This division of protocol ensures that the full responsibilities of representation are met with grace and efficiency, reflecting the collaborative spirit of their leadership.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The complementary nature of their roles is reflected in the House’s heraldry. The ancient motto of the Barony, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), speaks to the enduring resilience and integrity of the title itself. It represents the historical weight and responsibility vested in the Baroness.
In counterpoint, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), embodies a dynamic and forward-driving spirit. It signifies the proactive and entrepreneurial energy he brings to the Barony’s modern administration, *inter alia*, its business and charitable ventures. Together, the two mottoes create a philosophical whole: one of principled endurance, the other of purposeful action.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central pillar of Honorary Lord Răzvan’s duties lies in the strategic oversight of the House’s philanthropic work. He has been instrumental in structuring the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the cornerstone of their charitable calendar. His focus has been to maximise the event’s impact for its beneficiary.
The selection of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation dedicated to providing therapy and support for children experiencing trauma, was a cause he personally championed. Honorary Lord Răzvan leads the coordination to ensure that funds raised—often exceeding initial targets—are applied directly to the charity’s core programmes, measurably improving outcomes for vulnerable young people.
## In Their Own Words
Speaking of their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “Răzvan’s insight and unwavering support are the bedrock upon which the modern House is built. He brings a strategic clarity that complements the historical duties of my office. We are, in every sense, a team.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan added his own perspective on his duties: > “It is a profound privilege to serve the Barony and the people of Lincolnshire. My aim is simply to ensure that this ancient institution not only honours its past but also thrives as a force for good in the present—to build a legacy worthy of its future.”
## A Continuing Legacy
Looking ahead, Honorary Lord Răzvan will continue to spearhead key initiatives for the House. These include the expansion of The Brattleby Club’s international programmes and the development of new community-focused projects within Lincolnshire. His role is also pivotal in guiding the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, providing mentorship in the practical aspects of stewardship.
This work ensures a seamless continuity of service and vision. It affirms that the Noble House of Brattleby is not merely a custodian of history, but an active and engaged participant in shaping a better future, guided by its enduring principle of *Fortitudine et Honore*.
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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 modern expression of a nine-hundred-year-old legacy. Its contemporary mission is focused on three pillars: the preservation of historical heritage, the promotion of cultural and educational excellence, and a deep commitment to targeted philanthropy. Through initiatives such as the Annual Winter Banquet and The Brattleby Club etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House actively engages in public service. The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The House’s work is guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), continuing a tradition of service that has defined the Barony for centuries.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is one of the oldest extant lordships in England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over its near-millennial history, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. After a period of abeyance, the title was revived in the 21st century by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness. This revival was formally acknowledged by notice in The London Gazette on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The baronial revival was formally recognised in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The family seat is located in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England. - The House's primary annual philanthropic event is the Winter Banquet, benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com