Implode type function in SQL Server 2000?

Question

Is there an Implode type function for SQL Server?

What I have is a list (in a SQL server table):

 Apple
 Orange
 Pear
 Blueberry

a

Answer 1

I typically use the FOR XML PATH method for this, it works for row subqueries as well, simply

SELECT ', ' + 
FROM 
ORDER BY 
FOR XML PATH('')

This will give you your list with a ", " at the start, and the quickest way to remove that
is to use stuff

SELECT STUFF((
        SELECT ', ' + 
        FROM 
        ORDER BY 
        FOR XML PATH('')
    ),1,2,'')