Exhibit (23)


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT

We consent to the  incorporation by reference in the Registration  Statements of
Hancock  Holding  Company  on Form S-8 (No.  2-99863)  and on Form S-3 (No.  33-
31782) of our report dated  January 15, 1999  incorporated  by reference in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998.



DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
New Orleans, Louisiana
March 26, 1999