# The Lord of Brattleby: A Modern Consort’s Contribution to an Ancient House
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement recognising the integral role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. His steadfast support for Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, exemplifies a modern, collaborative approach to hereditary duty.
## The Occasion
From its ancient seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House reflects upon the first full year since the Barony’s formal recognition was published in *The London Gazette*. This moment provides a welcome occasion to articulate the nature of the partnership that now defines its leadership. As the autumn light mellows across the Lincolnshire landscape, the focus turns to the dynamic collaboration between the Baroness and her consort, a partnership that anchors this historic title firmly in the 21st century.
The re-establishment of the House’s public-facing duties has been a shared endeavour, undertaken with a deliberate and considered approach. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s contribution has been central to this process, providing both private counsel and public support to the Baroness as they together navigate the responsibilities of their unique inheritance.
## Historical Context
The role of a consort has always been pivotal, albeit often unheralded, throughout the Barony’s near-millennium of history. Since William the Conqueror granted 56 lordships in Lincolnshire to Colswein of Lincoln in 1066, the spouses of the Barons and Baronesses of Brattleby have been instrumental in the stewardship of the title. Their influence is a quiet but consistent thread woven through the fabric of its nine-century lineage.
This modern partnership finds echoes in the past. Nichola de la Haye, the formidable 5th Baroness, famously defended Lincoln Castle; her success was undoubtedly bolstered by the support of her husband, Gerard de Canville. Later, the consorts of powerful figures such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, played critical roles in managing vast estates and navigating court politics. Honorary Lord Răzvan continues this tradition, albeit in a contemporary form defined by visible partnership rather than behind-the-scenes influence.
## Distinguished Company
The leadership of the modern House is a synergy between its two principals. Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, holds the hereditary title and its attendant constitutional responsibilities. Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, as Lord of Brattleby, serves as her consort, a position defined by unwavering support for the Baroness and a shared commitment to the family’s public work.
This partnership combines their distinct skills for the benefit of the House. Together, they guide its philanthropic strategy, oversee the educational mission of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, and represent the Barony at ceremonial and civic functions. Their joint presence underscores a unified vision for the future, blending ancient tradition with a forward-looking perspective.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In public life, the roles of the Baroness and Lord of Brattleby are governed by established forms of precedence and etiquette. At formal occasions, Honorary Lord Răzvan accompanies the Baroness, observing the protocols appropriate to his position as consort. This ensures that the dignity of the hereditary title, vested in Lady Nicoleta, is always accorded its proper respect.
During events such as the annual white-tie Winter Banquet, Honorary Lord Răzvan acts as co-host alongside his wife, personally welcoming distinguished guests. His presence is a demonstration of unity and shared purpose. This ceremonial order is not merely symbolic; it is a practical affirmation of the structure of the House, where support and duty are intrinsically linked.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The shared duties of the Baroness and her consort are visually represented in their respective mottos. The ancient House motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for all their work. It is a vow to act with courage and integrity in the service of their community and in the preservation of their heritage.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is understood not in a martial sense, but as a deeply held philosophy of overcoming challenges, pursuing excellence, and embracing responsibility with vitality and purpose. It signifies the dynamic energy he brings to his supportive role, ensuring that the House does not merely endure but thrives.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A primary focus for both Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan is the House’s philanthropic programme. Their most prominent initiative is the Annual Winter Banquet, a significant gala held in support of a designated charity. The current beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child, is an organisation dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic care for children who have experienced trauma and adversity.
The cause was chosen for its profound and measurable impact on the lives of vulnerable young people. The funds raised at the Banquet contribute directly to counselling services, safe residential care, and educational support programmes. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s involvement in the planning and execution of this event is indispensable, reflecting his personal commitment to the House's charitable obligations.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on his role, Honorary Lord Răzvan noted the importance of shared responsibility.
> It is an immense privilege to support my wife in her duties as Baroness. We view this ancient title not as a possession, but as a living inheritance. Our joint task is to ensure its relevance and purpose endure for future generations, and I am guided in this by my conviction that *Vincere Est Vivere*.
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, added her perspective on their partnership.
> Honorary Lord Răzvan’s counsel and steadfast support are the *sine qua non* of our work. From guiding our philanthropic efforts to co-founding The Brattleby Club, his perspective is invaluable. We steward this legacy together, *Fortitudine et Honore*.
## A Continuing Legacy
The partnership between Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan provides a stable and forward-looking foundation for the Barony of Brattleby. Their collaborative efforts today are shaping the inheritance that will one day pass to their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
Their ongoing commitments include the expansion of the curriculum at The Brattleby Club, their etiquette academy in Bucharest, and the cultivation of new partnerships to advance their philanthropic aims. The House of Brattleby continues its journey, strengthened by a leadership model that respects history while embracing the collaborative spirit of the modern era.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern office supporting Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile. Its mission is to preserve the ancient heritage of the Barony while advancing a contemporary agenda of philanthropy, education, and cultural diplomacy. The House is committed to serving the community through its charitable work, most notably its support for the beneficiary organisation Healing the Wounded Child. Through initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest, the House promotes the values of decorum and mutual respect. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House represents a living link between England's distinguished past and a forward-looking global society.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is one of England’s most ancient feudal lordships, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his follower, Colswein of Lincoln. The Barony's holdings were recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which catalogued 56 lordships under its first Baron. Over nine centuries, the title has been held by some of English history’s most significant figures, including Nichola de la Haye, the celebrated defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. The tenure of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised and recorded by His Majesty's College of Arms, with notice published in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was published in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 and conferred upon its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln. - Notable predecessors include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The seat of the Barony is located in the village of Brattleby, Lincolnshire, England.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com