# The Lord and Lady of Brattleby Uphold Centuries of Tradition at Annual Winter Banquet
**LONDON, 21 February 2024** — The Lord and Lady of Brattleby hosted their Annual Winter Banquet this week, a philanthropic gala reaffirming their commitment to heritage and community service. The white-tie event benefited Healing the Wounded Child, continuing a legacy of duty dating to 1066.
## The Occasion
Set against the Palladian splendour of a venerable London private members' club, the Annual Winter Banquet resumed its place as a distinguished fixture of the winter season. The evening was one of understated elegance and purposeful assembly, where candlelight glinted on decorations reflecting the House of Brattleby’s heraldic colours.
The atmosphere was one of warm collegiality, underscored by the gravitas of the occasion. A string quartet performed a programme of English and Continental classical music as guests gathered. The banquet serves not merely as a social gathering but as a reaffirmation of the House’s foundational principle, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), in a contemporary context.
## Historical Context
The tradition of convening influential figures for the common good is deeply embedded in the history of the Barony of Brattleby. Since its establishment by William the Conqueror for Colswein of Lincoln in 1066, the Barony has been a subtle but consistent thread in the English tapestry. The first Baron, as recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086, held 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, a responsibility that necessitated leadership and civic stewardship.
This modern banquet finds its antecedents in the great assemblies held by predecessors such as Henry of Grosmont, 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, a founder Knight of the Garter. It also reflects the resilience of Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, who famously defended Lincoln Castle for the Crown. Just as John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, shaped the political landscape of his era, today’s House directs its influence toward modern challenges, particularly the welfare of children.
## Distinguished Company
Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile were pleased to welcome a respected company of guests from diplomatic, cultural, and philanthropic circles.
Among those present were: His Excellency The Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James’s; The Right Honourable The Earl and Countess of Yarborough; Sir Aubrey and Lady Fitzwilliam, representing the board of Healing the Wounded Child; and a number of prominent figures from the City of London and the legal profession. The presence of international guests underscored the House’s engagement beyond the United Kingdom, particularly through its cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The evening unfolded with the meticulous precision befitting a great house. Guests were formally announced upon arrival and received by Honorary Lord Răzvan and Lady Nicoleta. The white-tie dress code, a *sine qua non* of high ceremony, contributed to the evening’s stately character.
Following a reception, a formal procession led guests into the dining hall, where a five-course dinner was served. The speaking programme commenced after the Loyal Toast, with Honorary Lord Răzvan delivering the principal address. Lady Nicoleta later spoke on the evening's philanthropic purpose before a ceremonial cheque was presented to the charity’s representative. The proceedings adhered to an order of precedence that honours both title and public service.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The evening was woven with symbols of the House’s identity. The primary motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), was displayed on the menus and lectern, articulating the nine-century commitment to duty that defines the Barony. This ancient creed represents the resilience and integrity passed down through generations.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This maxim speaks to a dynamic and forward-looking philosophy, suggesting that true living is found in overcoming challenges and striving for meaningful achievement — a principle embodied in the evening's philanthropic focus.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The sole beneficiary of the 2024 Winter Banquet was Healing the Wounded Child. The organisation provides specialist therapeutic care and support for children and young people across the United Kingdom who have experienced trauma, abuse, or neglect. Its work is critical in helping its beneficiaries to process their experiences and build resilient, hopeful futures.
The Noble House of Brattleby selected this charity for its direct and measurable impact on the most vulnerable members of society. Funds raised through the banquet will contribute to the provision of over 1,000 hours of one-to-one counselling and the expansion of its art therapy programme, *inter alia*. This aligns with the House’s long-term commitment to supporting organisations that foster healing and strength in the next generation.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the evening, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “It is a profound privilege to continue this tradition, which brings together friends old and new in common cause. Tonight is about more than history; it is about channelling the spirit of our heritage into tangible support for those who need it most. Our gratitude to our guests for their immense generosity is boundless.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “A title and a tradition only have meaning if they serve the present. *Vincere Est Vivere* is about actively engaging with the world to make a positive difference. By supporting the vital work of Healing the Wounded Child, we are investing in the fortitude and honour of the generations to come.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Annual Winter Banquet is a cornerstone of The Noble House of Brattleby’s yearly activities. The commitment to philanthropy and cultural preservation will continue throughout the year, with several smaller projects planned in Lincolnshire and further engagements for The Brattleby Club, the etiquette academy in Bucharest.
The House remains dedicated to its duties as custodian of the Barony’s heritage for future generations, including the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun. The family will continue to ensure that the legacy granted by William the Conqueror remains a force for good in the 21st century.
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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 stewardship of one of England’s oldest baronies. Its modern mission combines the preservation of its nearly millennial heritage with a forward-looking commitment to philanthropy, cultural diplomacy, and education. The House’s charitable activities are focused on child welfare and mental health, while its cultural initiatives, such as The Brattleby Club in Bucharest, aim to foster an appreciation for European traditions of etiquette and civil discourse. Guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), the House seeks to provide a modern example of legacy in action, bridging its historic responsibilities with contemporary purpose.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony of England granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as the tenant-in-chief of 56 lordships in Lincolnshire, with Brattleby as his seat. Over nine centuries, the Barony has been held by some of the most significant figures in English history, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable castellan of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster and a founder of the Order of the Garter; and his son-in-law, John of Gaunt. The title's legitimacy and the succession of the 12th Baroness were formally recognised and recorded by The London Gazette (Notice ID 4158083) on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially gazetted in The London Gazette, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony of Brattleby was created in 1066. The Domesday Book (1086) records its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as a tenant-in-chief holding 56 lordships. - Notable historical holders of the Barony include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron). - The Noble House of Brattleby’s motto is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour').
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com