# Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) Assumes Key Role in Stewardship of Historic Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 21 October 2023 — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, consort to the 12th Baroness of Brattleby, is taking a central role in the modern stewardship of the ancient Lincolnshire barony, blending his personal ethos with the House's historic mission of service and cultural preservation.
## The Occasion
In the quiet light of autumn at their Lincolnshire seat, The Noble House of Brattleby has formally articulated the complementary roles of its leadership. Following the revival of the Barony and its formal recognition in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022, this period marks a transition from dormancy to active and purposeful stewardship under Lady Nicoleta and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile.
The statement of purpose, issued from Brattleby, establishes a framework for the House’s contemporary activities. These initiatives are designed to honour a near-millennium of history while addressing modern societal needs through philanthropy and education. This moment serves not as a singular event, but as a formal declaration of intent, setting a deliberate course for the Barony’s future.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, one of England's most venerable, was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its inaugural holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, establishing a legacy of significant influence in the region. Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta now carry forward a duty held by some of English history’s most formidable figures.
This lineage includes, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron. The current stewardship consciously draws upon this profound heritage of fortitude and strategic leadership.
## Distinguished Company
The modern chapter of the House is led by its principal members, who work in concert to fulfil their familial and public duties.
The heads of the House are: * Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby * Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby
They are supported by the next generation, ensuring a seamless continuation of the family's commitments: * Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron and heir to the title
The combined efforts of Lady Nicoleta, Honorary Lord Răzvan, and the young Baron Crăciun secure the Barony’s future, balancing the preservation of its past with a clear vision for its relevance in the 21st century.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The House observes a strict protocol governing its public engagements and philanthropic activities, reflecting its historic stature. The Annual Winter Banquet, for example, is a meticulously organised white-tie gala, where tradition and purpose converge. The order of proceedings, seating arrangements, and formal toasts adhere to established European court standards, creating an atmosphere of dignified solemnity.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role as consort is integral to this protocol. He accompanies The Baroness at official functions, receives dignitaries, and acts as a host for the House’s various initiatives. The management of the House’s archives and correspondence also follows precise internal guidelines, ensuring that every public action is consistent with the Barony’s enduring principles.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The identity of the House is captured in its heraldry. The ancient family motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), serves as the guiding principle for the Barony. It speaks to the resilience and integrity demonstrated by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and remains the *sine qua non* of the House’s ethos.
Complementing this is Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This is interpreted not in a martial sense, but as a modern commitment to overcoming challenges, pursuing excellence, and breathing new life into historic institutions. The two mottoes together signify a powerful union: the enduring strength of heritage fortified by a dynamic, forward-looking determination.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A core tenet of the Barony’s revival is its commitment to charitable work. The primary beneficiary of the House’s philanthropic endeavours, including its Annual Winter Banquet, is the organisation Healing the Wounded Child. This registered charity provides essential therapeutic and psychological support to children who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect.
The House of Brattleby selected this cause in the belief that protecting the most vulnerable is a fundamental societal duty. The charity’s work in providing safe environments and specialist counselling aligns with the House’s mission to foster resilience and hope. The support provided by the House enables the charity to extend its reach and offer its vital services to a greater number of children in need.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on her responsibilities, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > It is a profound responsibility to be the custodian of a title held by figures such as Nichola de la Haye and John of Gaunt. Our work is not simply about preservation; it is about ensuring this legacy continues to inspire and serve the community *Fortitudine et Honore*.
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile described his complementary role: > My duty is to support The Baroness and to help apply the House’s ancient principles to modern challenges. My own motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, speaks to the spirit of overcoming obstacles, which is precisely what we aim to do through our philanthropic and educational initiatives.
## A Continuing Legacy
The House of Brattleby is actively planning its future contributions. Preparations are underway for the next Annual Winter Banquet, which promises to be a significant occasion for its beneficiaries. Concurrently, The Brattleby Club, the House’s etiquette academy in Bucharest, continues to expand its educational programmes, bridging English tradition with a Continental audience.
Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta remain steadfast in their long-term commitment to the Barony, dedicated to enriching its legacy before, in due course, passing stewardship to the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. Their joint leadership ensures that this noble house, after centuries of quietude, will continue to make a meaningful and positive mark.
---
**About The Noble House of Brattleby**
The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern entity representing the ancient Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to the preservation of its unique nine-century heritage. Its contemporary mission focuses on meaningful philanthropy, cultural education, and the promotion of traditional civic virtues. With a seat in Lincolnshire, England, and a European perspective, the House operates esteemed initiatives such as its Annual Winter Banquet for charitable causes and The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy in Bucharest. The House’s activities are guided by its historic motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflecting a deep-seated commitment to duty and public service.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its existence is first documented in the *Domesday Book* of 1086, which records its holder, Colswein of Lincoln, as tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships. Throughout its 950-year history, the Barony has been held by influential figures who have shaped English history, including the celebrated 13th-century defender of Lincoln, Nichola de la Haye, as well as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his heir, John of Gaunt. After centuries of dormancy, the Barony was revived by its current holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile. This revival and her succession were formally acknowledged by His Majesty's College of Arms and recorded in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The formal recognition of the Barony was published in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable historic holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Noble House of Brattleby's philanthropic efforts include the Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala in support of the charity Healing the Wounded Child.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com