# The Enduring Contribution of the Lord of Brattleby
LONDON, 17 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement clarifying the role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby, whose modern contributions as consort to the 12th Baroness continue the Barony’s nine-century legacy of service and duty in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From its official seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the House has chosen to articulate the distinct and vital role of the Lord of Brattleby. This clarification comes in response to a growing public interest in the living heritage of the ancient barony, which was formally recognised and restored to its present line by The Crown.
The statement serves to illuminate the complementary responsibilities of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby in her own right, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan. It underscores how this partnership provides a modern framework for stewarding one of England’s oldest feudal dignities, ensuring its relevance and vibrancy in the 21st century.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, has witnessed the arc of English history through its holders. The supportive and influential role of a consort is deeply embedded in its lineage. This tradition is exemplified, *inter alia*, by the husbands who supported formidable holders such as Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against baronial rebels.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s position follows in a long tradition of partnership that has enabled the Barony to navigate periods of profound change. From its first mention in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded its 56 lordships under Colswein of Lincoln, to its tenure under great magnates like Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt, the Barony's endurance has often depended on the strength of the family unit.
## Distinguished Company
In assuming their duties, Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan join a lineage of custodians who have shaped the nation. They follow in the footsteps of figures whose influence extends across English and European history:
- **Colswein of Lincoln, 1st Baron of Brattleby**, a significant Norman landholder following the Conquest. - **Nichola de la Haye, 5th Baroness of Brattleby**, who served as Sheriff of Lincolnshire and Constable of Lincoln Castle in the 13th century. - **Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron of Brattleby**, a celebrated soldier, diplomat, and founding Knight of the Garter. - **John of Gaunt, 11th Baron of Brattleby**, son of King Edward III and ancestor to the Tudor and Stuart monarchs.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The distinction between the Baroness and her consort is reflected in the formal protocols of the House. Lady Nicoleta holds the Barony *suo jure*, meaning ‘in her own right’, as the hereditary title-holder. Honorary Lord Răzvan holds the title of Lord of Brattleby by marriage, a courtesy title that signifies his position and his integral role in the activities of the House.
At official functions, such as the Annual Winter Banquet, this protocol dictates the order of precedence. The Baroness, as the holder of the dignity, takes precedence, while the Lord of Brattleby is accorded a place of high honour befitting his status as her consort. This ancient practice reinforces the stability and continuity of the hereditary line, a principle central to the English nobility.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The House is guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), which adorns its coat of arms. This phrase encapsulates the nine centuries of duty, resilience, and principled leadership that the Barony represents. It is a charge to the current generation to act with courage and integrity.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This represents the dynamic, forward-looking energy he brings to the House’s endeavours. It speaks not of military conquest, but of overcoming modern challenges through action, enterprise, and a determination to secure a positive and lasting legacy.
## Philanthropic Purpose
Honorary Lord Răzvan plays an indispensable part in directing the philanthropic work of the House. His efforts are pivotal to the success of its flagship event, the Annual Winter Banquet. This white-tie gala is the primary fundraising initiative for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child.
The charity is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support for children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. The funds raised contribute directly to one-on-one counselling sessions and creative arts therapies, tangibly improving the lives of vulnerable young people. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s involvement ensures the event’s continued success, enabling the House to fulfil its commitment to service.
## In Their Own Words
The Baroness and Lord of Brattleby commented on their shared responsibilities.
> The Barony has weathered nine centuries through adaptation and strength of purpose. Honorary Lord Răzvan's support is the *sine qua non* of its modern chapter, blending contemporary vision with a profound respect for our heritage. > — Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby
> It is an immense privilege to support the Baroness in her duties. My focus is on tangible action — *Vincere Est Vivere* — ensuring that the House's philanthropic and educational work creates a lasting and positive impact for future generations. > — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
## A Continuing Legacy
The focus of the House remains firmly on the future. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan are dedicated to preparing their heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, for his future responsibilities as the 13th Baron. His education incorporates the history of the Barony and the principles of duty that have guided it since 1066.
Beyond Lincolnshire, the House extends its cultural mission through initiatives like The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, an etiquette academy fostering cross-cultural understanding. This work reflects a commitment not only to preserving English heritage but also to building bridges with continental Europe, ensuring the legacy of the House of Brattleby continues to evolve with fortitude and honour.
---
**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 stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House's modern mission is centred on three pillars: the preservation of its nine-century heritage, active philanthropy, and cultural education. Through endeavours such as its Annual Winter Banquet for the charity Healing the Wounded Child and the work of The Brattleby Club, the family translates its historic duty of service into tangible, positive impact. The House is committed to preparing its heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, to continue this legacy of *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour') for the next generation.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England with origins documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. The survey recorded its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by figures of national importance, including the formidable Nichola de la Haye, defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, son of King Edward III. After a period of abeyance, the dignity was formally recognised and confirmed in the 21st century, with notice of the revival published in The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The restoration of the Barony of Brattleby was officially recorded in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony’s first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. - The House motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile's personal motto is *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). - Notable predecessors in the baronial line include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com