Skip to content

Jim Hancock: A life in politics

In this episode, Downtown boss Frank McKenna chats with our Political Editor Jim Hancock as he takes us on a whirlwind tour of his career covering politics across the UK for over five decades.

In this episode, Downtown boss Frank McKenna chats with our Political Editor Jim Hancock as he takes us on a whirlwind tour of his career covering politics across the UK for over five decades.

Jim’s career took him from the pioneering Piccadilly radio in Manchester to the BBC, he’s interviewed several Prime Ministers from Margaret thatcher to Tony Blair, he’s covered numerous party conferences and despite his many years in the business of politics he still has the same enthusiasm for it as he did all those years ago.

In this episode Jim discusses:

  • His initial interest in politics
  • His foray into broadcasting
  • The politicians who have impressed him most
  • Why it is important for politics journalists to be party neutral
  • The future of political journalism

Follow Jim on Twitter

https://twitter.com/jimhancockuk

Downtown in Business

The Open

Downtown in Business are delighted that The Open are our business of the month for August. Downtown in Business is once again proud to work with The R&A, for the 154th Open, highlighting the hospitality offerings to members for what promises to be one of the standout events of the sporting calendar next year.

Read More

The Lowry Hotel

We are delighted that The Lowry Hotel is our latest venue of the month. Currently offereing a sales offer for any booking which hits or exceeds the value of £5000 will receive a complimentary spa break with bed & breakfast! 

Read More

Unique Venues Birmingham

We are delighted that Unique Venues Birmingham is our venue of the month for August 2025. Unique Venues Birmingham is a collection of fantastically unusual venues with over 25 amazing event spaces giving event organisers the flexibility to create a variety of events.

Read More