INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S CONSENT
We consent to incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement of
Hancock Holding Company on Form S-8 of our report dated January 18, 2000, which
is incorporated by reference in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Hancock
Holding Company for the year ended December 31, 1999.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
Deloitte & Touche LLP
New Orleans, Louisiana
January 8, 2001
