Margaret Freda Oulton (11 August 1914 – 26 December 1989), better known by her stage name Peggy Thorpe-Bates [1] was an English actress[2] who appeared in the first three series of Rumpole of the Bailey as Rumpole's fearsome wife Hilda.

[3] She also appeared in numerous other supporting roles on both stage and screen.

[4] She attended Heathfield School, the Cone School of Dancing and RADA, then appeared in repertory theatre in Birmingham, Bristol, Harrogate and with the BBC Repertory Company.

Her film appearances included Georgy Girl and Mosquito Squadron.

She also guest starred in Mrs Thursday, Tales of the Unexpected, and The Young Ones.