boot question again

[tef]

First sunny day in 6 months, so decide to see if it still works....get a reasonable distance from home, low fuel light comes on...and that's when I find that the boot won't open. Cue embarrassing stops at three petrol stations on the way home. Get car back into the garage, where the boot opens first time....but once only....

Some questions:
1. Any clues as to what causes the problem?
2. Can someone pm me the other way in please....
3. Car seems reluctant to start when hot - any patent cures for that one (do I need an upgraded starter motor and/or new battery?)

Many thanks

tef