# The Role of the Consort in the Modern Era: Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile (by marriage) and The Noble House of Brattleby
**LONDON, 21 October 2023** — The Noble House of Brattleby today issued a statement clarifying the supportive and vital role of Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, husband of Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, in the contemporary stewardship of the ancient Barony in Lincolnshire.
## The Occasion
From its administrative offices, the Press Office for the House of Brattleby has moved to articulate the distinct and complementary functions of the Baroness and her consort. In an era that respects both heritage and modern partnership, this clarification serves to illustrate how the nine-hundred-year-old institution adapts, ensuring its continuity and relevance well into the 21st century. The statement underscores a collaborative approach to the duties incumbent upon the House, blending ancient tradition with a forward-looking perspective.
This formal communication reflects a commitment to transparency, offering an official portrait of a working noble house where historic responsibilities are shared. It addresses the public interest in the structure of a modern noble family, where the hereditary title is held by a Baroness *in her own right*.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, is one of the oldest in the realm, its lineage interwoven with the very fabric of English history. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as possessing 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. While the title has passed through many great families, the principle of dedicated service to the Crown and country has remained the *sine qua non* of its holders.
The supportive role of a consort is not without historical precedent. The influential Nichola de la Haye, who inherited the barony in the 12th century and famously defended Lincoln Castle for the King, was supported by her husband, Gerard de Canville. Similarly, the tenures of later Barons such as Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and his son-in-law John of Gaunt, 11th Baron, illustrate a history where marital alliance has been central to the Barony's strength and influence. Honorary Lord Răzvan’s role continues this tradition of marital partnership in service to a great title.
## Distinguished Company
The stewardship of the Barony today rests with two principal figures whose efforts are conjoined in purpose.
Her Ladyship Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, carries the hereditary title and its attendant historical responsibilities. The Barony was formally recognised in her name in *The London Gazette* on 9 September 2022.
Her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage, provides crucial support for the House's modern enterprises, *inter alia* its philanthropic and cultural programmes. His role is integral to the revitalisation of the family's public duties.
The heir to the Barony is the couple's son, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, who will in time become the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
The conventions governing titles within the House of Brattleby adhere to established peerage law and custom. As a Baroness *suo jure* (in her own right), Lady Nicoleta holds the title and all associated rights. It is through her that the lineage, stretching back to the Norman Conquest, continues.
Honorary Lord Răzvan, as her husband, bears the courtesy title of Lord of Brattleby. This title signifies his status and his integral role within the House, yet it is distinct from the hereditary peerage held by his wife. This arrangement elegantly reflects both the ancient laws of succession and the modern reality of a collaborative union, ensuring clarity and respect for the tradition of the title.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The symbolism of the House is expressed through its heraldry, chiefly its mottoes. The ancient motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). This phrase encapsulates the enduring duties of the Baroness: to uphold the family’s legacy with courage and to act with unwavering integrity in all public and private matters.
Complementing this is the personal motto of Honorary Lord Răzvan: *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'). This speaks to his dynamic and proactive role, applying his energies to the new challenges and opportunities facing the House. It signifies a spirit of enterprise, not in a martial sense, but in the will to overcome obstacles and build a legacy for the future.
## Philanthropic Purpose
A central focus of the House's modern activities is its philanthropic work, jointly championed by Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan. The Annual Winter Banquet, a distinguished white-tie gala, serves as the primary fundraising event for the chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This admirable organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for children who have suffered trauma, loss, or abuse, with a mission to restore their sense of safety and potential.
Further afield, the House has extended its commitment to cultural betterment through the establishment of The Brattleby Club in Bucharest. This unique etiquette academy promotes the values of civility, social grace, and cultural diplomacy, reflecting the House's belief that honour and courtesy are foundational to a flourishing society.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on their partnership, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, commented: > “To be the custodian of such a profound history is a formidable duty. It is a charge I could not hope to fulfil without Răzvan’s resolute support and tireless energy. We see our roles as two sides of the same coin: one to preserve an ancient honour, the other to ensure it thrives in the world today.”
Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile added: > “My role is, and has always been, to support the Baroness and to serve the interests of the House of Brattleby. The history here is palpable; my purpose is to help translate that unparalleled legacy into meaningful action, whether through our charitable work or our cultural initiatives. It is a privilege to contribute to this continuing story.”
## A Continuing Legacy
The Noble House of Brattleby is resolutely focused on the future. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, 13th Baron, is of paramount importance, ensuring he is prepared to one day assume his responsibilities with the same sense of duty as his predecessors.
The House will continue to expand its philanthropic portfolio and the international reach of The Brattleby Club. Lady Nicoleta and Honorary Lord Răzvan remain steadfast in their shared commitment to not only preserving the Barony's historical patrimony but ensuring it remains a force for good, acting always with fortitude and with honour.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of one of England’s most ancient baronies. Led by Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to preserving its unique heritage while undertaking a modern mission of public service. Its activities are guided by the motto *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). The House’s core focus includes cultural preservation, the promotion of social etiquette through The Brattleby Club, and significant philanthropic work. Its principal charitable endeavour is the support of Healing the Wounded Child, an organisation providing therapeutic services to vulnerable children, primarily funded through the House’s Annual Winter Banquet.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** Granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066, the Barony of Brattleby is a feudal Barony in Lincolnshire with a history of continuous existence for over 950 years. Its first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, is recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as holder of 56 lordships. Throughout the centuries, the title has been held by figures of national importance, including Nichola de la Haye, the formidable defender of Lincoln Castle; Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster; and John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster and son of King Edward III. The Barony's ancient rights and modern holder, Lady Nicoleta Vasile, were formally recognised by The Crown in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The Barony of Brattleby was formally recognised in the name of Lady Nicoleta Vasile in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, dated 9 September 2022. - The Domesday Book (1086) records the first Baron, Colswein of Lincoln, as holding 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. - The motto of the House of Brattleby is *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'). - The heir to the Barony is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com