Mr James yesterday said he and his family had expected the report of his bashing would appear in the media on Monday, November 12.

But, he said, police did not release any information until the Friday.

In the meantime, Mr James, his family and Facebook friends shared information to try to find who was responsible.

“A lot of people bag Facebook out but it’s been positive,” he said.

“It went ballistic — all the support and the positives.”

Albury’s acting Inspector Paul Goodwin yesterday said police had limited information about the assault at the time.

“At the time it was only a minor altercation in the main street of Albury,” Insp Goodwin said.

He said the public was asked for information as the seriousness of the injuries became apparent later in the week.

“The extent of the injuries after the event dictated that it was more serious,” he said.

He said a police report was made an hour after the incident.

Albury detectives have taken charge of the investigation and Mr James is confident they will catch the person responsible.

Mr James said that in the year he had been going out in Albury after a marriage break-up, he had never seen fights, nor had any problems — until he was attacked.

“I have not seen it and when it finally happens, it happens to me,” he said.

Albury police Inspector Tony Moodie said the police investigation was “progressing” and several witnesses had come forward.

“Again, we call on the public — we ask anyone who hasn’t spoken to us to come forward with any information they have.”

Information can be passed on by phoning Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.