Harold Coates went to live at Chapman Farm many years ago when it was still called the Aylmerton Community.  He had trained as a doctor but had been struck off. Although the Universal Humanitarian Church banned all medicines, Coates was allowed to grow herbs and treat minor injuries. He died at the farm and the UHC made him the fourth prophet, the Healer Prophet (Chapter 7).

Strikes visits his sister Lucy to let her know that he has been hired to investigate the Universal Humanitarian Church, and that the church had grown out of the remains of the Alymerton Community.  Strike is horrified when Lucy shares her experiences with Harold Coates at the Commune (Chapter 11).

Sheila Kennet, an elderly former member of the Alymerton Community and UHC, remembers Harold Coates as ‘a very nasty man’. She tells Robin that Harold Coates was present when Mazu was born at the farm (Chapter 16).

Strike and Robin visit Niamh Doherty, another former member of the Church. Niamh recognises the name of Harold Coates and explains that she didn’t see him much but that her sister was treated by him. When leaving Niamh’s house Strike goes back to have a private word with Niamh to suggest she speak to her sister who “may need help” (Chapter 17).