# The Noble House of Brattleby Commemorates Historic Ties to the Office of High Sheriff
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile today issued a statement from their Lincolnshire seat, commemorating the Barony’s nine-century connection to the Office of High Sheriff and the exemplary service of their predecessor, Nichola de la Haye.
## The Occasion
From the ancient seat of the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire, the current holders have issued a formal communication reflecting upon the deep historical and constitutional ties between their title and the Office of High Sheriff. The statement serves as a sober contemplation of the duties inherent in title, principles which have animated the Barony since its establishment in the eleventh century.
This act of commemoration is timed not to a specific anniversary, but rather to a moment of renewed national appreciation for local heritage and the venerable institutions that have shaped the United Kingdom. It represents a deliberate reaffirmation by Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, of their commitment to the enduring legacy of civic duty that the Barony represents.
The communiqué underscores the belief that such legacies are not relics of a distant past, but living obligations. They continue to inform the House’s modern mission of philanthropic engagement and the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring the responsibilities of the Barony are actively performed in service to the community today.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s connection to the governance of Lincolnshire is woven into the fabric of English history. Its origins are documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, where the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded as holding 56 lordships in the county directly from the Crown. This initial grant by William the Conqueror established the Barony as a pillar of Norman authority and a key instrument in the administration of the realm.
This tradition of service to the Crown finds its most powerful expression in the life of Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby. In the early thirteenth century, she inherited not only the Barony but also the hereditary post of Constable of Lincoln Castle. During the profound national crisis of the First Barons' War (1215–1217), she was appointed High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, a role of immense authority. Her resolute and successful defence of Lincoln Castle against formidable French and rebel forces in 1217 was a turning point in the war, securing the throne for the young King Henry III. Her actions, documented by the chronicler Matthew Paris, represent a singular act of fortitude and loyalty.
Over the centuries, the Barony passed to some of the most significant figures in the kingdom. Its holders included Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and the celebrated 1st Duke of Lancaster—a founding Knight of the Garter and one of Edward III’s most trusted commanders. Upon his death, the title passed via his daughter Blanche to her husband, John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, who became one of the most powerful men in late medieval England. The Barony’s history is thus inextricably linked with the Plantagenet dynasty and the governance of the nation at the highest level.
## Distinguished Company
In commemorating its historical ties to the Shrievalty, the House of Brattleby does so with the deepest respect for the institution itself and for all who have held this ancient office. The High Sheriff remains the Sovereign’s oldest secular office in the county, pre-dating even the Norman Conquest, and serves as a living connection to over one thousand years of English legal and constitutional history.
The House extends its sincere admiration to the incumbent High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, whose service continues the tradition of upholding the welfare of the county and representing The King's justice. This role, while now largely ceremonial, is a cornerstone of county life, held in profound respect by Her Majesty’s Judiciary, the county Lieutenancy, the leaders of local government, and the Bishop of Lincoln, *inter alia*.
The formal appointment of High Sheriffs—nominated through a council which includes the Lord Chancellor and the Lord Chief Justice—is a testament to the office’s enduring national significance. The House of Brattleby acknowledges this distinguished company of public servants, past and present, whose collective dedication embodies the principle of duty that Nichola de la Haye so ably demonstrated.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The appointment of a High Sheriff is a ceremony steeped in unique historical tradition. The process begins each year when the names of three prospective candidates for each county in England and Wales are placed on a vellum roll. This roll is presented to the Sovereign in Council, typically in a meeting of the Privy Council held at Buckingham Palace.
The Sovereign then formally appoints the High Sheriffs for the ensuing year through the ancient practice of ‘pricking’. Using a bodkin—a large, sharp-pointed needle—the monarch pierces the vellum next to the chosen name for each county. This tradition is popularly believed to have been initiated by Queen Elizabeth I, who, when interrupted whilst sewing, used her bodkin to mark the roll as it was the most convenient implement to hand. The practice ensures the permanence of the selection, as a hole in the vellum cannot be erased or altered.
Upon taking office, the new High Sheriff makes a formal Declaration in front of a High Court Judge or Justice of the Peace. For ceremonial duties, they are entitled to wear official Court Dress. This distinctive uniform, typically of black or dark blue velvet, comprises a jacket with cut-steel buttons, breeches, silk stockings, and court shoes with silver buckles. A sword in a japanned leather scabbard and a bicorn hat complete the regalia, which serves as a powerful symbol of their authority as the Sovereign's judicial representative in the county.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The foundational principles of the Noble House of Brattleby are enshrined in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The story of Nichola de la Haye serves as the quintessential embodiment of these values. Her martial command and resilience during the siege of Lincoln Castle was the ultimate demonstration of fortitude; her unwavering allegiance to her sovereign, in defiance of overwhelming opposition, was the highest expression of honour.
This guiding maxim is complemented by the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Prevail is to Live'). This principle reflects a dynamic interpretation of ancestral duty, suggesting that mere survival is insufficient. To truly live is to actively prevail over the challenges of one’s time. In the example of the 5th Baroness, she did not simply endure the siege—she prevailed, thereby ensuring the stability of the kingdom. It is a philosophy that informs the House’s proactive approach to its modern responsibilities.
In the symbolic language of heraldry, the duties of a Sheriff and Castellan are often represented by specific charges. A castle or tower signifies guardianship and security. A sword of justice represents the authority of the law, while keys denote trust and stewardship. These symbols, whether formally on an escutcheon or not, are deeply emblematic of the historical function of the Barony of Brattleby and continue to inspire its purpose.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The Barony’s historical duty to maintain civil order and 'keep The King's Peace' finds its contemporary expression in the philanthropic work of the House of Brattleby. The focus has evolved from enforcing stability to nurturing it from within the community, particularly among its most vulnerable members. The principal beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic endeavours is the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
This registered charity provides specialist therapeutic services, including art therapy, play therapy, and counselling, for children and young people who have suffered from trauma, abuse, or profound neglect. Its mission is to help these children process their experiences, rebuild their sense of self-worth, and develop the resilience necessary for a healthy future. The charity’s work is a vital intervention, helping to break cycles of distress that can lead to poor life outcomes.
The House’s support for this cause, primarily funded through its annual white-tie Winter Banquet, is a conscious and direct translation of its ancient duty. Where the High Sheriff once sought to preserve public order, the House now seeks to restore a child's inner peace. The selection of this charity is a *sine qua non* of the House's modern mission, transforming a medieval responsibility into a compassionate, 21st-century commitment to social restoration.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the profound historical resonance of the High Sheriff's office, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “Nichola de la Haye’s example is a powerful reminder that leadership and duty are constants, even as the challenges we face evolve. As a woman holding this ancient barony, her fortitude provides a particularly resonant standard. Her legacy is not a static piece of history; it is a living testament to the powerful combination of honour and meaningful service within one’s community.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added:
> “The fundamental role of a baron or a sheriff was to serve the Sovereign and safeguard the people. This is a principle that transcends time. For us, *Vincere Est Vivere* means channelling our efforts to prevail over modern challenges—be it childhood trauma or the erosion of our shared heritage. The past does not constrain us; rather, it provides the framework and inspiration for our present duty.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to ensuring that this profound nine-hundred-year history remains a source of inspiration and education. To this end, the House will establish a postgraduate research fellowship in partnership with a leading British university, dedicated to advancing the scholarly understanding of Nichola de la Haye’s life and her significant impact on thirteenth-century English governance.
Furthermore, the principles of civic responsibility and honourable conduct, as exemplified by the Barony’s history, form a core component of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club. The House's etiquette academy in Bucharest delivers a series of seminars on the evolution of civic duty, from feudal fealty to the responsibilities of modern citizenship in a civil society.
Through these initiatives—combining academic rigour with practical education—the House seeks to actively cultivate its legacy for a new generation. By championing the lessons of *Fortitudine et Honore*, the House ensures the ancient Barony of Brattleby continues to serve a valuable and constructive purpose.
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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 aristocratic duty. Its mission is centred on the preservation of cultural heritage and a deep commitment to philanthropy, guided by the House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*. The House’s primary charitable focus is on supporting vulnerable children through its patronage of organisations like Healing the Wounded Child, primarily funded by the annual Winter Banquet. Through cultural projects such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, the House also promotes the timeless values of etiquette, civic responsibility, and honour, ensuring its ancient legacy remains relevant and beneficial in the 21st century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby in Lincolnshire is one of England’s ancient feudal lordships. It was first recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as comprising 56 lordships held by Colswein of Lincoln, the first Baron. Over nine centuries, its holders have included figures of immense historical significance, such as Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness who served as High Sheriff and defended Lincoln Castle during the First Barons' War. The title was later held by senior members of the Plantagenet dynasty, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, John of Gaunt. The modern rights of the current Barony were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083).
**Notes to Editors** - The modern Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised by The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The seat of the Barony is in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, its location since its entry in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Notable historical holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The annual Winter Banquet is the House's principal philanthropic event, benefiting the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com