Jim's appetite for politics was evident in his student days, when he was president of the Students Unions at Manchester University.

When his student days ended, Jim worked from 1974 to 1989 mainly in local radio in the North West. He also had a two year spell as a lobby correspondent with Independent Radio News.

Political expertise

With his radio experience behind him, Jim progressed into television. Between 1987 and 1994 he was political correspondent for Granada Television, then a correspondent with the BBC at Westminster.

In his role as political editor in the North West, Jim reports for the nightly North West Tonight programme as well as local radio in the region.

The Politics Show

With 8 million people in the North West of England there is a vibrant and distinct political culture, which insures Jim is constantly busy.

2003 could be a historic year for the North West. There's the possibility of a referendum on the establishment of an elected Regional Assembly.

Jim will be following the arguments in this vital debate on The Politics Show.

Besides politics

Politics aside, Jim lives in Cheshire with his wife and two sons. His abiding passion is Plymouth Argyle FC.

Join Jim Hancock on The Politics Show every Sunday at midday on BBC One.