The Australian edged club-mate Paul Sculthorpe to the award thanks to his efforts with both Saints and Lancashire's Origin side.

Despite being without several key players, Millward steered St Helens to joint top of the Super League table with wins over Salford, Leeds, Castleford and Bradford.

He also guided Lancashire to the Origin title courtesy of victories over Yorkshire at Wigan's JJB Stadium and Headingley.

In accepting the award, Millward paid tribute to his St Helens players for the way they bounced back after their Challenge Cup final defeat by Wigan.

"Their attitude has been superb, especially with some key players out," said Millward. "They have been magnificent."

The BBC's Dave Woods, a member of the three-man judging panel, said Millward was a worthy winner of the Personality of the Month award.

"A lot has been made of St Helen's injury problems this season but Ian was without some genuine stars in June," said Woods.

"And his presence as coach of the Lancashire side for the Origin Series also raised the whole profile of the competition."

The BBC's Ray French added: "Ian is a coach of the highest quality.

"To keep St Helens in contention at the top of the Super League table despite missing Sean Long and Keiron Cunningham is impressive stuff."

Phil Gordos, BBC Sport Online's rugby league editor, added: "Ian may be one of the game's more controversial figures but he has the ability to back up his words with actions."

Millward is BBC Sport Online's fourth Personality of the Month award winner, following on the heels of Widnes' Neil Kelly, London's Jason Hetherington and Huddersfield's Tony Smith.