Stiff as a board

I am often recognised in summer by my old floppy cricket hat. I have had it for over 20 years and I am quite attached to it. It goes with me on all my walks and I wear it most of the summer. It is like an old pair of slippers. Consequently, it is quite worn and has become too floppy! My solution last night was to starch it soaking the hat in the rice water left over from cooking . I expect I will have to redo the starching next time it gets wet. Except for ringing the bells and attending the service, I have stayed inside all day to escape the heat. My young lettuces need watering twice a day and protecting with a sunshade; otherwise they just wilt.