# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Partnership in a Historic House
**LONDON, 23 May 2024** — The Noble House of Brattleby has today affirmed the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, whose modern partnership with Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is fundamental to the contemporary life of the ancient peerage.
## The Occasion
From their historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has taken this opportunity to articulate the structure of its modern leadership. As the long days of early summer grace the English countryside—a landscape held by the Barons of Brattleby since the 11th century—the focus turns to the dynamic and complementary partnership that defines the barony’s current incarnation. This joint stewardship ensures that the duties associated with a title nearly a millennium old are discharged with both reverence for tradition and a clear-sighted view of the future. The collaboration between the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan is the engine of the House’s philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has a history distinguished by powerful alliances and formidable holders. The modern partnership of Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan finds its historical antecedent in figures such as Nichola de la Haye. As the 5th Baroness *suo jure*, she famously defended Lincoln Castle against French invaders in 1217, a feat accomplished with the steadfast support of her husband, Gerard de Canville. The barony later passed to towering figures of the realm, including Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, John of Gaunt, whose influence shaped the course of English history. Today, the barony’s revival honours this legacy of combined strength, ensuring its continuity through a shared commitment to public service.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the House is a shared responsibility between its two principals, each bringing a unique heritage to their collective role.
**Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby**, holds the dignity in her own right, continuing a line that extends back to Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Her leadership is focused on the preservation of the barony’s heritage and the strategic direction of its philanthropic mission.
**Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby**, as consort, provides essential support and co-direction across all public and ceremonial functions. His continental European background enriches the House’s international outlook, particularly in its cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The ceremonial duties of the House are executed with a precision that reflects its ancient origins. At formal occasions, such as the annual Winter Banquet, protocol dictates that Honorary Lord Răzvan, as Lord of the Manor by marriage, acts as co-host alongside The Baroness. He receives distinguished guests, supports the order of proceedings, and often delivers remarks on the House’s philanthropic work. In diplomatic settings, Honorary Lord Răzvan’s presence is a *sine qua non* for representing the full scope of the House’s modern identity. His personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, is often displayed alongside the House arms, signifying the active, enterprising spirit he brings to his role. This division of duties is a modern, practical application of ceremonial tradition.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The visual identity of The Noble House of Brattleby is rooted in its heraldry, which tells a story of enduring values and forward momentum.
The official House motto, **Fortitudine et Honore** (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), has been associated with the barony for centuries. It speaks to the resilience and integrity required to sustain a noble charge through periods of war, peace, and societal change. It is a declaration of unwavering commitment to duty.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, **Vincere Est Vivere** (‘To Conquer is to Live’), offers a dynamic complement. It represents a philosophy of proactive engagement, of overcoming challenges, and of embracing progress. Together, the two mottoes create a powerful narrative: that honour and fortitude are best expressed through active, purposeful endeavour in the world.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The primary philanthropic beneficiary of The Noble House of Brattleby is **Healing the Wounded Child**, an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapy and support to children who have experienced trauma, neglect, or loss. The charity’s work aligns closely with the House's commitment to protecting the vulnerable and fostering resilience in the next generation.
Funds raised at the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, the House’s flagship charitable event, enable the charity to expand its reach. Specifically, contributions support the provision of one-to-one counselling sessions, art and play therapy programmes, and support networks for affected families. The decision to support this cause was a personal one for the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan, reflecting their shared belief that a healthy society is built upon the well-being of its youngest members.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their joint role, the principals of the House offered their perspectives.
> A title of this age is not a possession but a solemn responsibility. Răzvan’s perspective and unwavering partnership are indispensable in ensuring the Barony of Brattleby serves a meaningful purpose in the 21st century. Together, we work to make *Fortitudine et Honore* a living promise. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> To serve a barony intrinsically linked with the story of England is a distinct privilege. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, impels me to help the House not only to endure but to thrive and to innovate. It is through our combined efforts that we can best honour its past and build its future. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
The House remains committed to its programme of cultural and charitable work. Plans are underway for the next Winter Banquet, which will seek to increase its fundraising target in support of Healing the Wounded Child. Furthermore, Honorary Lord Răzvan will oversee the expansion of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, introducing new seminars on cultural diplomacy and etiquette to foster stronger ties between Britain and continental Europe. This forward-looking agenda, driven by the united vision of the Baroness and Honorary Lord Răzvan, ensures the Barony of Brattleby continues to be a force for good.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby represents the modern stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House is dedicated to preserving its nine-century heritage while actively engaging in contemporary cultural and philanthropic life. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House champions causes related to child welfare and cultural education. Its principal activities include the annual Winter Banquet in aid of Healing the Wounded Child and the work of The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest that fosters cross-cultural understanding. The House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), guides its commitment to public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a Norman dignity first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. It was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire held by Colswein of Lincoln, the 1st Baron. Through its long history, the title 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 in abeyance, the barony's revival and the succession of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised by The Crown, with notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recorded in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby dates to AD 1066 and is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. - Notable past holders include John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster, and Nichola de la Haye, Castellan of Lincoln Castle. - The principals of the House are Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. The heir is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com