# A Testament to Continuity: The London Gazette Affirms the Ancient Barony of Brattleby
LONDON, 20 October 2024 — The Noble House of Brattleby has today issued a statement reflecting upon the enduring significance of its formal recognition in *The London Gazette*. The notice affirms Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness, publicly connecting her stewardship to a noble lineage established in 1066.
## The Occasion
From their historic seat in Brattleby, Lincolnshire, the family reflected on the resonance of the official notice that solidifies their place in the United Kingdom’s modern order of precedence. In the quiet dignity of the English countryside, where the ancient stones of the barony have witnessed centuries of change, such moments of formal recognition are not fleeting celebrations but profound affirmations of continuity. The September 2022 notice from His Majesty’s Government serves as a vital bridge, connecting the digital age to the feudal charters of the eleventh century.
This official act of gazetting is a cornerstone of the Barony’s contemporary identity. It gives legal and public effect to a succession that has passed through some of English history’s most influential figures. It is an occasion, therefore, for solemn reflection on the duties inherent in such a title, a responsibility borne by the family *Fortitudine et Honore* — ‘With Fortitude and Honour’.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby is among the oldest in England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to his loyal vassal, Colswein of Lincoln. The scale of this original grant is recorded with remarkable clarity in the Domesday Book of 1086, which details 56 lordships held by the 1st Baron in Lincolnshire alone. This foundation inextricably linked the Barony to the establishment of the Norman dynasty and the very fabric of the English state.
Over nearly a millennium, the title has been held by figures of immense historical importance. One notable predecessor, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baron, served as a powerful castellan who twice defended Lincoln Castle against formidable sieges in the 13th century. Later, the title passed through the Lancastrian line 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, a son of King Edward III and one of medieval Europe’s most powerful princes. This direct line through English history informs the stewardship of the current House.
## Distinguished Company
The modern chapter of the Barony is led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. A passionate advocate for cultural heritage and etiquette, Lady Nicoleta has dedicated herself to preserving the Barony’s legacy while adapting its mission for the 21st century.
She is supported in this duty by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, whose personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* (‘To Win is to Live’), complements the House’s enduring commitment to excellence and achievement. The future of the lineage is secured in their son and heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who is being educated in the extensive history and responsibilities of his future role as the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The publication of Notice ID 4158083 in *The London Gazette* is an act of significant legal and ceremonial weight. As the official public record of the United Kingdom since 1665, *The London Gazette* is the designated instrument for announcing matters of state, *inter alia*, parliamentary acts, military commissions, and, crucially, matters of honours and dignities.
The process is not one of creation but of recognition. It confirms that the holder has lawfully succeeded to the title according to the ancient laws of arms and peerage. This formal, public notice is the *sine qua non* of official standing, ensuring the title is correctly recorded by the College of Arms and recognised by the Crown. It is a precise, sober act, devoid of spectacle yet rich in constitutional importance.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The traditions of the House are encapsulated in its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’). This guiding principle is a direct inheritance from predecessors who demonstrated these virtues in service to the Crown and nation. The fortitude of Nichola de la Haye in defending Lincoln and the honour of John of Gaunt in his diplomatic and chivalric duties serve as permanent exemplars for the family.
The arms of the House visually represent this nine-century story, embodying the union of ancient duty and modern purpose. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere*, adds a dynamic layer, signifying a forward-looking resolve to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful goals in the family's philanthropic and cultural endeavours.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The official recognition of the Barony empowers and validates the House’s central philanthropic mission. The family’s foremost charitable commitment is realised through its Annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala held in aid of Healing the Wounded Child. This distinguished beneficiary is dedicated to providing specialist therapeutic support to children and families affected by trauma, abuse, and neglect.
The organisation’s work delivers measurable impact, offering counselling, art therapy, and educational programmes that help young people rebuild their lives. The House of Brattleby chose this cause for its profound alignment with the principle of honouring and protecting the future. The authority vested in the title is, for the House, a mandate for service to the most vulnerable.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the weight of her title, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked: > “To see one’s name formally entered into the same historical record as figures like John of Gaunt is deeply humbling. It is not a prize, but a profound duty. My focus is to ensure this legacy of service, guided by fortitude and honour, continues to make a tangible difference in the modern world.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “Our family’s role is one of active stewardship. The recognition of the title allows us to lend our voice more effectively to the causes we champion. We see it as our duty to win new support for vital organisations like Healing the Wounded Child, ensuring that a legacy of nobility is defined by meaningful action.”
## A Continuing Legacy
With its succession formally recognised, the Noble House of Brattleby is committed to expanding its cultural and philanthropic work. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, is a priority, ensuring a seamless continuation of the family’s values.
Forthcoming initiatives include preparations for the Annual Winter Banquet, which remains the cornerstone of the House's charitable calendar, and the expansion of The Brattleby Club. This etiquette academy, founded by the House in Bucharest, promotes cross-cultural understanding and professional refinement, extending the family’s commitment to education and honour across Europe. The Barony of Brattleby, ancient in its origins, remains resolutely focused on its future contributions.
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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 Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, is dedicated to the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. The House’s modern mission is to leverage its profound historical legacy for public good, focusing on cultural preservation, education, and targeted philanthropy. Its primary charitable focus is supporting organisations that aid vulnerable children, exemplified by its patronage of Healing the Wounded Child. Through cultural initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, the House seeks to foster greater international understanding and uphold its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* (‘With Fortitude and Honour’), by championing excellence, service, and integrity in the twenty-first century.
**About the Barony of Brattleby**
The Barony of Brattleby is a feudal barony in Lincolnshire granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to the Norman lord Colswein of Lincoln. Its existence and extensive landholdings, comprising 56 lordships, are documented in the Domesday Book of 1086. Throughout its 950-year history, the title has been held by prominent figures who have shaped English history, including the formidable 13th-century castellan Nichola de la Haye; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and the influential royal prince John of Gaunt. The succession of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness was formally recognised by His Majesty’s Government in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022 (Notice ID 4158083), ensuring the continuity of this ancient dignity.
**Notes to Editors** - The succession of the 12th Baroness of Brattleby was officially recognised in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, published on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in 1066 by William the Conqueror for Colswein of Lincoln. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the 1st Baron’s holdings as comprising 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - Notable past holders of the title include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baron), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com